Brief
Green Party leader proposes three‑year rent‑rise emergency brake
Polanski urges a temporary cap on private rent increases to match inflation or wages.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Green Party leader and London Assembly member Zack Polanski will use his conference speech on 2 October to propose a three‑year “emergency brake” on private rent rises, limiting increases to the lowest of CPI inflation, wage growth or 2%.
Polanski says landlords have been able to hike rents beyond wages, leaving many 25‑year‑olds unable to afford a room of their own and pushing 30‑ to 35‑year‑olds back to their parents’ homes. He will argue that the brake would give renters breathing space while wages catch up.
He cites Office for National Statistics data showing average private rents rose 3.7% in the year to July 2026, while annual wage growth (excluding bonuses) was 3.5% between May and July. The proposal follows Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s recent announcement to adjust the state pension triple lock from 2030.
Key facts
- Polanski will call for a three‑year rent‑rise emergency brake limiting increases to the lower of CPI, wage growth or 2% (standard.co.uk)
- Average UK private rent rose 3.7% in the 12 months to July 2026 (standard.co.uk)
- Annual wage growth (excluding bonuses) was 3.5% between May and July 2026 (standard.co.uk)
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced changes to the state pension triple lock to start in 2030 (standard.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Zack Polanski to demand London rent rise brake 'triple lock' in conference speech”
