Prime Minister calls conditions in Athwal’s properties “unacceptable” as tenants report black mould and ant infestations

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, has strongly criticized Labour MP Jas Athwal after allegations surfaced regarding poor living conditions in properties rented out by Athwal. The BBC reported that tenants in Athwal’s flats have complained about severe issues, including black mould and widespread ant infestations.

Athwal, the MP for Ilford South and the largest landlord among the House of Commons members, has faced backlash as tenants described unsanitary conditions in his rental properties. One tenant reported ants infesting their children’s clothes and body, while others mentioned having to clean black mould from their bathroom ceilings regularly.

Starmer addressed the situation on Monday, stating, “It’s not good enough. It’s unacceptable for any landlord, and I’ll be really clear about that. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a Labour MP or anybody else, it’s unacceptable.” He acknowledged that Athwal is taking steps to rectify the situation but emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues.

The controversy is particularly embarrassing for Labour as the government prepares to introduce a renters’ rights bill aimed at enhancing protections for tenants. Renters’ rights groups are calling for Athwal’s resignation, alleging that his refusal to rent to tenants claiming housing benefits might have violated housing laws. The BBC’s investigation also highlighted other problems in Athwal’s properties, including dirty communal areas, malfunctioning fire alarms, and improperly managed washing machines.

In response, Athwal defended his role as a landlord, stating that he has made recent repairs and improvements. He admitted that some of his properties lacked the necessary licenses and has since sacked his lettings agent. Athwal expressed regret for the conditions reported and apologized to his tenants.

Tom Darling from the Renters’ Reform Coalition criticized the situation, saying, “Loose fire alarms, ants, black mould, and threats of eviction for tenants that dared to complain – the appalling conditions experienced by Jas Athwal’s tenants are all too common for renters across the country.”

The London Renters Union (LRU) has urged Redbridge council, where Athwal remains a councillor, to investigate possible breaches of housing laws. The LRU pointed out that excluding tenants on housing benefits might have violated the Equality Act, highlighting the need for urgent reforms to address the renting crisis and tackle negligent landlords.

THE TELEGRAPH

Sir Keir Starmer has described the conditions of rental properties owned by Labour MP Jas Athwal as “unacceptable,” following a recent investigation into the MP’s property portfolio. Athwal, who holds a significant number of residential and commercial properties in London, is facing scrutiny over the state of these rentals.

Starmer has urged Athwal to address the issues and make necessary improvements “as quickly as possible.” Despite this call for action, Starmer has chosen not to remove the party whip from Athwal at this time. The Prime Minister’s response underscores the seriousness with which the Labour leadership views the situation, while also signaling a preference for internal resolution over punitive measures.

This development comes amid broader concerns about housing standards and the responsibilities of property owners, particularly those in public office. The Labour leadership’s approach reflects a balancing act between holding members accountable and maintaining party unity.

THE NEGOTIATOR

Managing Agent Fired Amid Damp and Mould Scandal Affecting MP Jas Athwal’s Properties

A London-based letting agency has been dismissed by its landlord client, Labour MP Jas Athwal, following a BBC investigation into severe conditions at multiple properties he owns. The investigation revealed significant issues, including damp, mould, and ant infestations, alongside missing licences for the properties.

Athwal, previously the leader of Redbridge Council and now MP for Ilford South, had previously been vocal against rogue landlords, emphasizing the importance of housing regulations. However, tenants in Athwal’s properties have reported severe living conditions, contradicting his earlier warnings to other landlords.

The BBC’s findings included unrenewed licences for several properties, despite the recent renewal of Redbridge’s selective licensing scheme, which requires a new five-year licence costing £860. Athwal’s properties had their licences expire in April and May of this year without renewal.

In response to the revelations, Athwal has taken responsibility for the issues, blaming the managing agent for the poor conditions and the lack of licensing. He has committed to replacing the agent, reimbursing tenants for repair costs, and issuing personal apologies. Athwal expressed being “shocked and sickened” by the state of the properties and the actions of his former managing agent.

Despite this, there is criticism of Athwal’s oversight, with some accusing him of negligence and hypocrisy. The scandal highlights the tension between public statements on housing standards and actual practices, particularly for politicians who hold themselves to high moral and regulatory standards.

BBC

The London Renters’ Union (LRU) has called for Labour MP Jas Athwal to resign following a BBC investigation into the poor conditions of his rental properties. The inquiry uncovered severe issues, including black mould, ant infestations, dirty communal areas, faulty lighting, and loose fire alarms in properties owned by Athwal, who is the largest landlord in the House of Commons.

Athwal, who was elected as the MP for Ilford South in July, previously served as the leader of Redbridge Council. The investigation revealed that many of his properties lacked the necessary licenses under a scheme he helped introduce, raising serious questions about his compliance with housing regulations.

In response to the findings, Athwal admitted to failures in property management and expressed regret, stating that he was “shocked and sickened” by the conditions. He has since terminated his contract with the managing agent and pledged to reimburse tenants for repair costs. Athwal also stated that he is now renting to individuals receiving housing benefits, addressing earlier criticisms about discriminatory practices.

The LRU’s spokesperson, Hester Sullivan, criticized Athwal for violating housing laws and failing to maintain safe living conditions. She argued that his continued presence in Parliament undermines trust in its ability to address the housing crisis.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also condemned the situation, emphasizing that such conditions are unacceptable for any landlord, regardless of political affiliation. The Conservative leader of Redbridge Council, Paul Canal, has called for Athwal to step down from his council position and urged an investigation into his property management practices.

In response, Redbridge Council affirmed its commitment to ensuring landlord compliance with licensing requirements and maintaining standards for tenant safety.