SFHA comment on passing of Cost of Living (Protection of Tenants) (Scotland) Bill
Bill passes at stage three.
Commenting today (Thursday 6 October) on the passing of the emergency legislation, The Cost of Living (Protection of Tenants) (Scotland) Bill, Sally Thomas, Chief Executive of the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA), said: “SFHA, and our members, have worked incredibly hard this week to highlight to the Scottish Government and opposition parties, why a rent freeze in the social housing sector is unnecessary and, indeed, likely to be counterproductive. We were glad to hear MSPs of all parties highlighting the vital work of our members and calling for a more proportionate approach.
“We will continue to make the case as to why this legislation must not continue after 31 March 2023. A rent freeze beyond this date would threaten our members’ ability to build, improve and maintain existing homes and deliver vital support services to tenants.
“In the months ahead, we will work constructively with the Scottish Government, and other stakeholders, so that we do not see the damaging longer-term consequences of a rent freeze occur. We are keen to find solutions that work for tenants, social landlords and the government.”
SFHA members can read our briefing on stage three here.