Propertymark has defended its decision to invite Angela Rayner as a speaker, despite industry backlash, noting that the former housing secretary and deputy prime minister is “highly expected” to return to frontline politics soon – making her a timely and authoritative voice for delegates at Propertymark One in London on 12 June.
Her confirmation last week drew criticism from some agents, with comments posted on Property Industry Eye expressing concerns over her participation.
During her tenure as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Rayner oversaw significant legislative changes affecting the private rented sector, including the Renters’ Rights Act and the Planning and Infrastructure Act, and set a target to deliver 1.5 million new homes in England during the current parliamentary term.
Her appearance comes amid ongoing reform in the housing sector, with regulatory and legislative developments remaining a central focus for property professionals.
Responding to the negative comments on Property Industry Eye, Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, told this publication: “Propertymark One has always been focused on bringing a wide range of relevant speakers direct to an audience who are passionate about their profession.
“Each year we invite government ministers to attend along with alternative well-known names from across the political arena to speak on stage, and while Angela Rayner could be viewed as controversial for a number of reasons, her appearance though will provide a very rare opportunity to listen to a central figure who has recently been directly responsible for implementing many new housing policies we are experiencing today.