Airbnb has paid for an article on a prominent Labour website to say it backs the scrapping of Section 21 evictions.

John Park – Airbnb’s head of government affairs and public policy in Northern Europe – writes on the Labour List website: “We advocated for ending Section 21 evictions, a cause we’re glad to see the new government moving forward with. We also made clear our readiness to help implement tourism taxes where there is clear support from the local community.”

Parkcites a recent report from business consultancy EY which says there is “little to no relationship” between Airbnb and house or rental prices. He says entire homes listed on Airbnb account for less than 0.7% of total dwellings nationally.

But he continues: “However, we recognise that certain hotspots face unique challenges, and we are committed to being part of the solution in these areas.

“The current regulatory system in England doesn’t yet equip local authorities with the tools to address problem areas effectively – as there is no clear or consistent data on the number of short term lets. That’s why we’ve long advocated for a comprehensive, easy-to-use, national registration scheme.”

Park says a national regulation  scheme would help regulate short lets in a proportionate way, providing local authorities with the data they need to better understand both the benefits and impacts in their area.

He adds: “The typical host in the UK earned nearly £5,500 a year—the equivalent of two months’ additional pay for the average UK household.

“This extra income has been a lifeline for many of our hosts during the cost of living crisis, with two-thirds of UK hosts stating that it helps them remain in their homes and communities they love. 

“We want to give more people access to this opportunity by working with banks and building societies to create mortgages that allow homeowners to share a space in their homes.

“ … We are expecting to hear soon from the new government on their plans for the sector. A well-designed, light-touch registration scheme, combined with thoughtful adjustments to the planning system, will enable local authorities to manage any impacts where issues are evident.

“At Airbnb, we want to see change which supports local communities, benefits families, and contributes to the UK economy. We look forward to working with the new UK Government in making this a reality.”