Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of introducing a cap on student rent on levels of student homelessness, in the context of the cost-of-living crisis.

Published homelessness statistics show that in 2021/22, 4,550 (1.6%) of main applicants assessed as being owed a homelessness prevention or relief duty had student or training as their employment status.

Many higher education providers have hardship funds that students can apply to for assistance and £261 million of student premium funding is available this academic year to support disadvantaged students who need additional help.

We recognise the additional cost of living pressures that have arisen this year, however evidence suggests rent controls in the private rented sector do not work. They discourage investment and lead to declining property standards. Our White Paper sets out plans to deliver a fairer deal for private renters, including empowering them to challenge unjustified rent increases. We will bring forward legislation in this Parliament.