Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment the Treasury has made of the potential impact of taxation on the supply of homes for private rent.

The Government believes good quality private rental accommodation is important and is committed to reforming the Private Rented Sector. The Government plans to publish a White Paper in 2022 which will set out a balanced package of reforms that works for both tenants and landlords.

In April 2016, the Government introduced higher rates of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) for those purchasing additional properties as a second home or as a buy to let property. The higher rates are three percentage points above the standard SDLT rates and are part of the Government’s commitment to support first time buyers and ensure an efficient use of housing.