Scottish Greens call for student rent waiver
The Scottish Government must compel universities and private student accommodation providers to cancel rent for as long as students are being told not to return to campus, the Scottish Greens have said.
The party’s education spokesperson Ross Greer MSP says making students pay for accommodation they cannot use would be unfair, after it was announced that the return to campus for most students will be delayed until March.
Ross Greer MSP said:
“We just don’t know when university students will be able to return to campus. For those who can’t go back their term-time accommodation to then be charged at least two months’ worth of rent would be outrageous. Their providers should be issuing rent waivers and if they do not, the Scottish Government should compel them to do so.
“The pandemic is creating a financial crisis for students and their families. Universities, colleges and the Scottish Government need to work together to support students in financial hardship as a result of circumstances outwith their control.
“Students should also be aware that, due to changes the Greens secured last year, it is now possible to terminate their accommodation lease on the same terms as any other private tenancy, by providing 28 days’ notice.”