HOMES PROTECTED UNDER SNP GOVERNMENT

HOMES PROTECTED UNDER SNP GOVERNMENT

RIGHT TO BUY COMING TO AN END

Increased protection for Scotland’s homes has been announced as part of the Scottish Government’s legislative programme for the year ahead.

The legislation will bring about an end to the right to buy on new build social housing, greater protection for those facing repossession and end the risk of people being made homeless in relation to small amounts of debt.

Commenting on the legislative agenda SNP MSP Sandra White welcomed the emphasis on securing Scotland's housing:

“The SNP Government’s commitment to dealing with Scotland’s housing problems could not be clearer.

“Not only are the Government investing more than ever before in social housing through a £1.5 billion investment in councils and housing associations, they are protecting that housing for future generations.

“Today’s legislative announcement puts housing at its heart.

“With the first real programme of council house building underway across Scotland in a decade abolishing the right to buy on new build social housing will ensure those properties remain social and affordable housing.

“We are working toward tough targets to abolish homelessness and protecting people’s houses from creditors will help achieve that.

“Similarly the SNP Government has already taken action to reduce the risk of repossession as people struggle to work through the current recession. With the Homeowners Support Fund helping those at risk. Today’s announcement will see Scottish homeowners given even greater protection, building on the Mortgage Rights Act and supporting those facing potential bankruptcy.

“As Scotland’s shows we’ve got what it takes to recover strongly from recession protecting people’s homes and ensuring housing for the future is an essential part of that process.”