The MP for Bath, Wera Hobhouse, has raised concerns about sub-standard student housing and called for “serious reform”.
Bath MP Wera Hobhouse with two student representatives
The MP, who is also a Vice-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Students, spoke about the unacceptable standards during an event meeting with representatives.
The event focused on the government’s Renters Reform Bill, which introduces new protections for tenants, including student renters.
However, there are debates arising over whether student houses should be exempt, along with purpose-built student accommodation.
Representatives are concerned that making students exempt from the measures in the Bill would lead to a two-tier rental market, with students becoming “second-class tenants”.
Mrs Hobhouse believes the issue needs serious reform, and says that students deserve to have safe and comfortable living conditions so that they can get the most out of their education.
The MP says she fears that poor amenities, rogue landlords, and hazardous housing are all too common for students who are working hard toward their degrees.
Mrs Hobhouse commented: “It is unacceptable that students are being subjected to substandard living conditions when they are working hard to achieve their academic goals.
“Students deserve to feel safe and comfortable in their houses. With its two excellent universities, Bath has a significant student population.
“Protections must not be undermined by possible exemptions for student housing in the Renters Reform Bill.
“We cannot allow a two-tier rental market to emerge, with students relegated to second-class tenants.
“As this issue progresses, I will continue to push for real reform in the student housing sector.”
