Member

In contrast, I must express my concerns about the Opposition’s new clause 21, which proposes that the Secretary of State consult the insurance industry to ensure that specific insurance products are available to landlords who are letting properties to tenants who are on benefits or will be keeping pets. On the surface that may appear to be a constructive solution, but in practice it risks perpetuating harmful stereotypes and creating further barriers for tenants. The implication that tenants on benefits or pet owners inherently represent a greater risk is both unfair and unhelpful. It reinforces outdated prejudices at a time when we should be focusing on inclusivity and reducing discrimination in the rental market, which is exactly what the Bill is about. As we heard from the hon. Member for Tiverton and Minehead (Rachel Gilmour), pets are part of our families, and I am glad to see the provisions that support that.