Climate change, Brexit and Universal Credit discussed at SFHA hustings
Watch the parties answer questions on issues key to the housing sector.
Climate change, Brexit and Universal Credit were just some of the issues discussed at a lively General Election hustings hosted by SFHA on Monday 9 December.
Representatives from Scotland’s main political parties took part in the event, which was chaired by SFHA Board Director Dr Vikki McCall:
- Graham Campbell (Scottish National Party)
- Ben Denton-Cardew (Scottish Liberal Democrats)
- Frank McAveety (Scottish Labour Party)
- Elaine Gallagher (Scottish Green Party)
- Thomas Kerr (Scottish Conservatives)
After opening statements on why housing is an important issue for Thursday’s General Election, the politicians answered three questions. Watch their answers below:
1. Housing associations in Scotland are contributing to the fight against climate change. How would your policies help them meet their goals?
2. Housing associations across the country are reporting that Universal Credit is leaving many tenants living in poverty, particularly the five-week wait. What are your policies on Universal Credit, and how would they help recipients?
3. From housebuilders to caregivers, migrants provide much needed services to housing associations. How would your policies ensure the supply of labour continues?
Sally Thomas, SFHA Chief Executive, said: “SFHA believes that everyone living in Scotland deserves a safe, warm, energy efficient, affordable home, in a thriving community, and many of the policy areas that remain reserved to the UK Parliament impact upon this aim. It was therefore vital to hear how the main parties in Scotland plan to address issues such as climate change, Universal Credit, and ensuring labour supply after Brexit.
“I would like to thank all those who attended our event; our chair, Vikki; and, in particular, the political party representatives for their contributions.”