Government says unlawful subletting at Grenfell Tower should not be prosecuted

The Government has issued guidance to prosecutors not to bring charges for unlawful subletting at Grenfell Tower so that victims can be identified.

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said the Director of Public Prosecution’s guidance in relation to Grenfell Tower and Grenfell Walk would apply when any individual came forward with information for the authorities about those who were in their flats on the night of the fire.

The Department for Communities and Local Government said anecdotal evidence from the community had suggested that some of the tenants in the tower block may have been unlawfully sub-letting their properties.

“This may mean people are reluctant to come forward with valuable information that would help to identify anyone still missing,” it said.

The guidance means that tenants will not face prosecution for offences under section 1 of the Prevention of Social Housing Fraud Act 2013.

‎The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has confirmed it will respect the DPP’s guidance.

Sajid Javid said: “Supporting those affected by the tragic events at Grenfell Tower has been the absolute priority of the government. That includes making sure that loved ones still missing are identified. Therefore I would urge those with information to come forward without fear of prosecution.”

Attorney General Jeremy Wright QC said: “Every piece of information will help the authorities accurately identify who was in the flats at the time of the fire. I hope this statement provides some much needed clarity to residents and the local community, and encourages anyone with information to come forward.”

Director of Public Prosecutions, Alison Saunders, said: “It is a priority for investigators to establish who was in Grenfell Tower on that tragic day and it is crucial that we do everything possible to support them.”