Government is going to get tough on people who do not pay their rent, Housing Minister Ashfield DeVent said yesterday.

"Some people would rather spend their earnings on having a good time rather than taking care of essentials like paying rent," Mr. DeVent said.

He said this was a "worrisome" trend.

"Unless we take harsh steps they are never going to take responsibility," he said.

He said a new code of conduct was going to be tied into every lease to stop people from running up debt.

And he said those who owe money to the Bermuda Housing Corporation were not allowed on any housing lists until their debts are paid.