has NEWHAM council put a hold on issuing HMO licences?

General Discussion

I have heard of a couple of people who are having difficulty in developing properties within the borough of Newham in East London, into HMO's due to an apparent STOP or HOLD on the HMO licences being issued. There is nothing on the website to this effect. Does anyone know anything about this? It would be helpful to have a bit more information before I wait for ages on the phone line to them. It does not make sense as Newham is a highly populated borough of London with a lack of housing.
Any help would be more welcome. Thank you. Emma