Following calls earlier this year by Bath’s Liberal Democrat MP, Wera Hobhouse, the Crown Prosecution Service have confirmed they will be conducting a review to update their guidelines on ‘sex for rent’.
After speaking in the Westminster Hall Debate on the issue, Wera Hobhouse said: “It is great to see progress is being made on such an important issue.
“This crime is vile and illegal, and the Government must do everything it can to stop perpetrators taking advantage of vulnerable individuals affected by the housing crisis.
“It is crucial we ensure police have the tools and guidance to tackle ‘sex for rent’. I hope to see the update ensure that the CPS guidelines are robust and fit for the modern era.
“Today marks a big win for vulnerable people up and down the country, and I’m glad the Government have listened.
“However, I urge Ministers and MPs from across the house to keep working with me on this issue, to ensure we eradicate this crime for good.”
‘Sex for rent’ is when a landlord solicits sex in exchange for shelter, as opposed to money.
