One tactic the Local Councils use to assist the tyranny of private land-lords is to have disputed properties declared “unfit for habitation” – and begin eviction and/or demolition procedures. Once tenants (or even “Owners”) are out of the properties – quite often the Local Council hands back the property to the Landlord and STOP all punitive action – as if the condemned buildings have suddenly repaired themselves! I know this because it happened to my parents – who live in Torquay. The rule of law only matters when the Local Authorities want us to do something – the rule of law is quietly ignored when it clashes with the corrupt will of the rich!