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17 May 2007
Issue: 7273 / Categories: Legal News , Property
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Surveyors and MPs escalate HIPs controversy

An 11th hour wave of opposition to home information packs (HIPs) was taking hold this week as MPs demanded that the controversial initiative be scrapped.

HIPs, which provide potential buyers with information about a house and an energy performance certificate, are due to come into force on 1 June.
Opponents question their benefit to the consumer and say they add between £300 and £500 to the cost of selling a home.

MPs were due to attend a Commons debate calling for the HIPs regulations to be annulled this week following the tabling of a motion by Conservative leader, David Cameron.

Meanwhile, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is bringing judicial review proceedings against the Department for Communities and Local Government for its alleged failure to properly consult before implementing legislation to bring in HIPs. RICS’ concerns include the lack of energy inspectors, regulation, and the impact of the scheme on the housing market.

Teresa Graham, chair of RICS’ regulatory board, says: “We have exhausted all the alternatives and greatly regret that we

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Bell Yard Kysen—Liz Giles

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Clarke Willmott—Lee Edwards

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Lime Solicitors—four promotions

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NEWS
The Attorney General, Ellie Reeves KC MP, and Solicitor General, Andy Slaughter KC MP, marked the 25th anniversary of Pro Bono Week by joining lawyers, charities, students and parliamentarians at events celebrating voluntary legal work
An indemnity costs battle with a £20m gap could reopen an important question: what weight should an approved budget carry?
The Environment Agency can prosecute offences beyond environmental legislation where proceedings support its statutory functions, the Divisional Court has confirmed
Should a conviction stand when a later ruling reveals that the law underpinning it was wrong? The answer exposes a clash between finality and justice
Witness evidence can be compromised by AI before a solicitor sees the draft, leaving safeguards focused on authorship incomplete
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