MP calls for crackdown on ‘sex for rent’ advertising

A crackdown is needed to stop landlords exploiting women by offering rooms for sex, an MP has said.

Labour’s Peter Kyle called for online housing adverts that target young people for sexual exploitation to be made illegal.

BBC South East found websites offering rooms to those without a home in return for sex.

One advertisement, seen by The Daily Telegraph, said: “I have both a spare room or room share available free of charge for an open-minded naughty sexy girl starting immediately.”

One student told the BBC how she felt her only option was a “sex-for-rent” deal. She said: “He took me into his living room, got me drinks, and then after that it was just straight upstairs and go for it.”

Mel Potter, from Brighton Oasis Project, a women’s charity, said: “It’s something that potentially can trap someone and put them at risk of violence and abuse.”