Nicholas Grundy QC and Sam Phillips of Five Paper’s Property Division were successful in persuading the Supreme Court to refuse permission to appeal in the case of Simawi v LB Haringey (Secretary of State intervening). Lords Kerr, Sales and Legatt JJSC considered the appellant’s application and the notice of objection drafted by Nick and Sam, as well as the objection on the part of the Secretary of State and refused permission on the papers.
The refusal of permission to appeal brings an end to legal proceedings in this matter as far as Article 14 is concerned. The decision of the Court of Appeal upholding the findings of Murray, J in the High Court means that Local Authorities can continue to rely on ss.87-89 of the Housing Act 1985 to obtain possession of properties after the death of successor tenants.