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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

Signature Litigation—Catherine Naylor

Signature Litigation—Catherine Naylor

International fraud and asset recovery offering boosted by partner hire

Stevens & Bolton—Alexa Payet

Stevens & Bolton—Alexa Payet

Private wealth disputes team adds contentious probate specialist

Morgan Lewis—Paul Feldberg

Morgan Lewis—Paul Feldberg

Firm strengthens investigations and sanctions capabilities with London partner hire

NEWS
Cheshire West, which established an ‘acid test’ for deprivation of liberty safeguards, has been overturned by the Supreme Court
The Chancery Division and other segments of the High Court are to be replaced by a new Business and Property Division (BPD), in a major civil justice shakeup
Law firms that hold client money will need to file annual accountants’ reports and make a declaration, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) confirmed this week
Two district judges and a tribunal judge have been sanctioned for delays in delivering judgments and orders
Private equity (PE) investment into UK law firms halved to £250m last year, but deal volume rose, according to research by Acquira Professional Services’ Momentum private equity market tracker
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