Labour plan to extend Awaab's Law to the private housing sector

The Deputy Prime Minister has met with the father of two-year-old Awaab Ishak who died in a mould-infested flat in Rochdale

Author: Olivia DaviesPublished 1st Aug 2024

The Deputy Prime Minister has met with the father of a two year old who died in a mould-infested flat in Rochdale.

Awaab Ishak died in the family's Rochdale Boroughwide Housing flat in December 2020.

Awaab’s Law was brought in by the Conservative government as part of the Social Housing Regulation Bill.

It requires social housing landlords to fix hazards that pose a danger to their tenants’ health with a strict, legal time limit.

Kelly Darlington and Christian Weaver have released a statement following a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State: "Today, alongside Awaab's father, we had a positive and constructive meeting with Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.

"We are encouraged by Labour's commitment to extend Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, a crucial step that aligns with our campaign's goals. This extension is vital for protecting tenants' rights and ensuring safer living conditions across all housing sectors.

"While we commend these remarks and the direction they signify, it is imperative that we maintain a critical eye on the implementation of these promises. We must ensure that these actions are not only planned but effectively executed to bring about real change.

"Furthermore, it is essential that these measures are enacted as soon as possible to prevent any further tragedies. The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated, and we will continue to advocate vigorously until Awaab’s Law is fully realised and enforced."

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