Green campaign for renters rights backed by SNP trade union group in tenant rights rebellion
The SNP’s trade union group has backed Scottish Green calls for better protection for tenants.
According to reports, the TUG has called for the Scottish Government to bring forward new legislation to protect tenants’ rights with protections against Covid-19 arrears evictions and a rent freeze, both of which featured in amendments to emergency laws proposed by Scottish Green MSP Andy Wightman, but blocked by the SNP and Tories in Parliament.
Responding, Scottish Greens housing spokesperson Andy Wightman said: “The response from the Scottish Government to my calls for protections for private tenants has been hugely disappointing. The minister had to publicly apologise after he dismissed my concerns in the debate, and now we know their Private Rented Sector Resilience Group contains no tenant voices. [2]
“Tenants need a new deal to ensure their human rights to a home are upheld, not only during the emergency but beyond it as well. Greater security for them also gives greater security for their landlords too.
“I hope the Scottish Government will realise the urgency of this situation and listen to the growing calls to act in the interests of those who risk losing their homes in the coming months.”