28^th Sep 2018

MPs are calling for the government to once and for all to outlaw the rent for sex deals and introduce new legislation sooner rather than later.

Last week in the House of Commons the Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, Wera Hobhouse, requested details of whether ministers had held any discussions with Cabinet colleagues, on determining how numbers of successful prosecutions against landlords offering the 'despicable' rent for sex deals, could be increased.

Hobhouse once again emphasised the point that rent for sex is still happening despite being illegal.

She is urging the government to create either new legislation or a code of conduct to stop websites from displaying this type of advert.

The Equalities Minister Edward Argar, replied that the practice is “despicable” and “preys on vulnerable people” trying to find a residence/home that is affordable.

He said that the department is extremely hard to ensure the availability of the offence to prosecute landlords engaging in this practice.

The Ministry of Justice says this is illegal and even placing an advert is breaking the law and could result in a seven year jail term.

Undeterred websites are still displaying adverts offering accommodation in return for sex.

News Archive »