SNP GOVERNMENT TO INCREASE PROTECTION FOR HOMEOWNERS FACING REPOSSESSION.

SNP GOVERNMENT TO INCREASE PROTECTION FOR HOMEOWNERS FACING REPOSSESSION.

SNP MSP for Glasgow Bob Doris has today welcomed the announcement from the Scottish Government that they are to take forward the recommendations from an independent working group tasked with looking at how to further support those faced with repossession.

The working group, which was set up in January 2009, has set out a range of recommendations which will now be taking forward by the Scottish Government. The main recommendations include:

· Legislation to ensure that the protection available through the Mortgage Rights (Scotland) Act 2001 applies in all repossession cases, instead of just those where the home owner defends the action

· Legislation to require lenders to show that they have considered every reasonable alternative to repossession, and to ensure that the courts consider the extent to which they have done so when deciding on repossessions cases

Commenting, Bob Doris MSP said:

“With this recession Scots all over the country are concerned about the repossession of their homes and it is our duty as politicians and legislators to ease those fears.

“I was pleased that the Scottish Government acted quickly by forming this panel of experts to look as the best way forward. It is fantastic news that the Government is to act on these proposals.

“By acting on these proposals, such as legislating to ensure protection available through the Mortgage Rights (Scotland) Act 2001, together we can work to avert repossessions in these difficult economic times.”