THE COUNCIL

Hokitika Guardian, 10 June 1936, Page 3

THE COUNCIL

PAIR RENTS BILL (Fer Press Association—Copyright). WELLINGTON, June 8. In the Legislative Council this afternoon the Fair Rents Bill and the Dis- j tress and Replevin Amendment Bill ; were received from the House of Representatives. } Moving the second reading of the Fair Rents Bill, the Hon M. Fagan, | (Leader of the Council, said the Gov- , eminent was most reluctant to introduce legislation, .but it was compelled to do so because of certain circumstances. He did not believe that people had starved ; hut progressive poverty had developed. After the election, rents had started to increase, l and the increased rates of pay for the unemployed had been almost wholly absorbed by the increased rents demanded. The bill was for only one year, and quite frankly be was glad that it was for that period only. If ic were for longer, one would have difficulty in defending it. There was a difficult transition period taking . place, and the measure was intended to meet the position till the. Government’s plan for the unemployed were in full operation. The Government was faced with two evils. It could be.said that the bill was “rough” on landlords; but, on the other hand, failure to legislate would leave the unemployed worker in no better position. Those who had suffered should nave some breathing space. The Hon R. Masters said he would sooner call it a tenants’ relief bill. He added, that in the projected housing scheme the Government was , following out the intentions of the previous Government, if it had been reurned. Mr Masters quoted . figures to sunw that during the last eight years rentals had dropped by 21 per cent. After the wage reductions, rentals were reduced by 20 per cent. ‘Now, though the Wages cuts were to be restored, rent was to on the previous baisis. The Hon F. E. Lark.said the majority of landlords had been fair to the unemployed during the depression, and the fair landlord had nothing to fear from the bill. The Hon V. Ward said all the members of the council were imbued with the ideals expressed by the leader, provided justice was done to everybody.' Those persons who had in- 1 vested their savings in property could not b'e overlooked. The Hon W. Perry, said that during the transition period the propertyowner would be called on to bear fore, than ■ his fair share. The bill should have been referred to the Stat utes-Revision Committee, because of its technical nature. Denial of the right of appeal from the magistrate’s decision would result in a discrepancy in the decisions. The Hon Sir James 'Alien ; said he -was afraid that the bill would y> curb the desire for private companies or individuals to invest money in dwell- i ings. • :• _ Replying. Mr Fagan said a housing survey, made by the previous Government was being used at present by the Government. The bill was read a second time on the voice*. The Distress and Replevin Amendment Bill was also read a second tome, and the Council ad : ourned.