An explosive investigation has uncovered that Labour-controlled councils across England have served nearly 200 no-fault eviction notices to families, despite the party's manifesto commitment to abolish the controversial practice.
The Stark Numbers Behind the Controversy
Freedom of Information requests reveal that at least 197 households received Section 21 notices from Labour-led local authorities since the general election. These notices allow landlords to evict tenants without providing any reason, a practice Labour vowed to eliminate during their campaign.
The findings have sparked accusations of hypocrisy from housing campaigners and opposition parties, who question why Labour councils are continuing to use a tool their national leadership promised to ban.
Councils Defend Their Position
Local authorities have defended their actions, citing complex circumstances that sometimes leave them with no alternative but to use Section 21 powers. Council representatives argue they face difficult balancing acts between competing housing priorities and limited resources.
"While we support the abolition of no-fault evictions, we must work within the current legal framework to manage our housing stock effectively," explained one housing officer who wished to remain anonymous.
The Human Cost of Housing Uncertainty
Behind the statistics lie real families facing housing instability and the stress of potential homelessness. Section 21 notices provide tenants with as little as two months to find alternative accommodation, creating immense pressure on already vulnerable households.
Housing charities have expressed deep concern about the continued use of these notices, particularly by councils that should be leading by example in protecting tenants' rights.
Political Fallout and Future Implications
The revelation comes at an awkward time for the government, which has repeatedly emphasised its commitment to rental reform. Campaigners are now demanding:
- Immediate action to fast-track the ban on no-fault evictions
- Clear guidance to councils on alternative approaches
- Emergency support for families affected by Section 21 notices
- Transparency about when and why councils use these powers
As the housing crisis deepens, this controversy highlights the challenging gap between political promises and practical implementation at local government level.
The government now faces increasing pressure to deliver on its manifesto commitment and provide councils with the tools and resources needed to manage housing without resorting to the very practices they condemn.
