A group of tenants has protested against Housing Secretary Angela Rayner receiving £20,000 for speaking at the Propertymark One conference.
The London Renters Union staged the protest by presenting Rayner with a novelty cheque worth £20,001, describing the payment as a “lobby fee” from the property industry.
The group has raised concerns about the payment, particularly because it came as Rayner rejected calls for rent controls in the private rented sector. The union also argues that the Renters’ Rights Act does not do enough to protect tenants from rapidly rising rents.
Tenants Question Rayner’s Payment
The London Renters Union claims Propertymark had previously campaigned against proposals for a private sector rent freeze, amid reports that former Chancellor Rachel Reeves had considered the measure.
Jae Vail, a spokesperson for the group, said the payment raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest between the Housing Secretary and the property industry.
The union has called on the government to prioritise renters and take stronger action against rising housing costs.
It also argues that rent controls could help reduce the financial pressure faced by tenants, particularly those struggling with rapidly increasing rents.
Propertymark Defends the Fee
Propertymark has defended the £20,000 payment, explaining that its annual conference is funded through ticket sales, sponsorship and exhibition income.
The organisation said speaker fees are a normal part of running major industry conferences and are used to attract high-profile figures who can offer insight into issues affecting the property sector.
Propertymark said Rayner’s role in housing policy made her an important speaker for its members. The conference also gave attendees an opportunity to hear directly from the Housing Secretary and question her about decisions affecting landlords, agents and the wider property market.
The organisation added that having direct communication with senior government figures helps Propertymark represent its members and contribute to discussions around future housing policy.
Wider Debate Over Rent Controls
The dispute comes amid continued debate over how the government should tackle rising rents and affordability in the private rented sector.
Tenant groups have increasingly called for stronger measures to control rental costs, while property organisations have warned that policies which reduce landlords’ potential returns could discourage investment and worsen the shortage of rental homes.
The disagreement over Rayner’s conference payment is therefore part of a much wider argument over how the government should balance tenant protection with the need to maintain a healthy supply of privately rented properties.
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