Renters' Rights Bill to get Second Reading in the House of Lords
The Renters' Rights Bill is to receive its second reading in the House of Lords on February 4th.
The Renters' Rights Bill has already completed its passage through the House of Commons and now it is the House of Lords' turn to scrutinise the bill, which will get its Second Reading on February 4th 2025.
The second reading of a bill in the House of Lords is a key stage in the legislative process. It provides an opportunity for members of the Lords to debate the bill's general principles and key provisions.
The second reading is scheduled by the government, or the bill's sponsor in the case of private members' bills, and usually takes place at least two weeks after the bill's first reading, allowing members of the House sufficient time to review the bill.
The second reading debate focuses on the broad objectives and principles of the bill, rather than specific details or clauses. Members of the Lords indicate in advance if they wish to speak during the debate. This list is managed by the House authorities. A minister or the member responsible for the bill introduces it, outlining its purpose and key points.
The opposition spokesperson then responds, often raising concerns or support. Contributions then follow from other Lords, including cross-benchers and backbench members. Members discuss the bill's aims, its potential impacts, and its alignment with broader policy objectives. Finally a government minister (or sponsor) responds to points raised in the debate in closing remarks, addressing concerns and summarising the case for the bill.
Second reading debates usually last for a few hours but can sometimes stretch over a couple of days.
Unlike in the House of Commons, a vote at second reading is rare in the Lords. If a vote occurs, it is usually on a reasoned amendment opposing the bill or seeking its rejection. However, this is uncommon, as the Lords generally prefer to amend rather than reject bills outright.
If the bill is approved (or no vote is taken), it progresses to the Committee Stage, which involves a detailed line-by-line examination of the bill, where amendments can be proposed and debated.
The Renters' Rights Bill is on course to becoming law this spring.
Renters' Rights Bill compliance consultation
We are offering a free, no obligation Compliance Consultation to help landlords ensure that they're fully compliant with the new requirements set out in the Renters' Rights Bill and aren't exposed to any potential penalties. If we do identify any gaps in compliance, we will help landlords to put an action plan into place. To arrange yours, call us on 0161 511 5339 or complete our contact form.
