Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Evictions and Bailiff Enforcement Activity Covid-19

2021-02-02

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Virendra Sharma
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of evictions and enforcement by bailiffs during the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.
What assessment has been made of the implications for policies regarding evictions and other enforcement activity conducted by bailiff organisations during the covid-19 outbreak?
Alex Chalk
Effective enforcement is essential to justice but must be done safely during the pandemic. The Government has banned bailiffs from enforcing evictions in England except in serious circumstances until 21 February, and have published covid-safe guidance for bailiff enforcement of debts and fines.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Virendra Sharma
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about hard-up families receiving knocks from bailiffs and the widespread abuse of bailiff actions reported by charities.
In the middle of a deadly pandemic, why are bailiffs permitted to undertake unsafe enforcement action? The shadow Minister for legal aid has written twice urging to pause home visits. Will the ban on home visits be reimposed, and will the Government deliver better industry regulations?
Alex Chalk
In normal circumstances, enforcement can occur after two months of arrears. Now there needs to be six months' notice before possession proceedings start, ensuring safety and respect for convention rights.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Reimposing the ban on home visits and delivering better industry regulations
Distinguish Between Evictions And Enforcement
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Karl Turner Lab
Kingston upon Hull East
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about new daily infections and deaths due to COVID-19, questioning how enforcement can continue as usual.
With over 20,000 new covid infections each day and more than 1,000 deaths, how can the Minister justify allowing bailiffs to proceed with business as usual during this deadly pandemic?
Alex Chalk
Public Health England has considered these matters and is satisfied with the situation. We ensure safety in proceedings while respecting all rights, including convention rights such as article 1 of protocol 1.
▸ Assessment & feedback
How can bailiffs proceed despite high infection rates
Completely Disregarded Business As Usual
Response accuracy