Letting agents’ body Propertymark has fired a warning shot at Baroness Eluned Morgan, the politician who has been chosen to be Labour’s new leader in Wales, and the Welsh Government’s First Minister.

In a statement following her ascent to power, Propertymark says: “The new First Minister must realise that rent controls are not the answer when it comes to the long term stabilisation of rents. Instead, the Welsh Government should enhance their overall relationship with the private rented sector to enhance current housing supply by reviewing property taxation and available support in providing high quality accommodation.”

The body congratulates her on winning the support of the majority of the Welsh Labour Group, and says it hopes this is the beginning of a period of stability for the Welsh politics in general.

Propertymark’s statement continues: “Should the Senedd confirm her as First Minister, Propertymark is keen to see Baroness Morgan place housing as a key priority for Welsh Government. Aspects such as delivering sustainable housing must be front and centre of their commitment moving forward.

“In addition, measures such as extending Help to Buy to the second-hand housing market would also increase home ownership. Baroness Morgan should also prioritise bringing forward the Welsh Government’s delayed white paper on fair rents and adequate housing if she is serious about tackling Wales’s housing crisis.”