Peer in call for more pet-friendly renting

WINSTON Churchill would be distressed so many private landlords are denying tenants the companionship of a pet, Westminster has been told.

Tory peer Lord Lexden, the official historian of the Conservative Party, reminded Parliament of the importance “the great man” attached to his animals, including allowing budgerigars to fly around his bedroom during meetings.

He recounted the anecdote about the wartime leader as he urged action by the Government to get more landlords to allow tenants to keep pets in their rented properties.

Peers had previously heard that following changes earlier this year to the model tenancy agreement – the Government’s recommended standard contract – landlords in England will no longer be able to issue blanket bans on pets.

Instead, consent for pets will be the default position, and property owners will have to object in writing within 28 days.

It followed concerns about the lack of animalfriendly properties, meaning many people struggled to find suitable homes and in some cases meant they had to give up their pets altogether.

However, concerns have been raised that not all landlords use the agreement as it is voluntary.

Lord Lexden said: “Does the minister recall the importance that Winston Churchill attached to his pets?

“Would not the great man have been distressed that so many landlords are denying their tenants the affection, the companionship that loving pets provide?”