A BAN on evictions in Scotland brought in as part of the Scottish Government’s coronavirus measures should be extended beyond January 22, say campaigners.
The initial ban came into effect on December 11 following pressure from the Scottish Greens and the tenants’ union Living Rent, who said it was necessary to avoid anyone losing their home during lockdown.
However, they said private and social tenants around Scotland would still face the threat of eviction by their landlord and would be left to fend for themselves in the coldest winter months.
Green MSP Ross Greer on Monday asked the First Minister to extend the ban given that during lockdown and the worst surge yet of the virus, “evictions would be grossly unjust but also downright dangerous”.
Nicola Sturgeon replied that the subject was under consideration, adding that she agreed with Greer’s sentiments.
Living Rent urged Housing Minister Kevin Stewart to let Scotland lead the way in protecting tenants.
Spokesperson, Maria Torres-Quevedo, said: “In the face of public health, housing and financial crises, we must be proactive and protect people from losing their homes. The extension of this ban would show commitment towards building more protections for tenants and a fairer housing system across Scotland.”
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