Lothian MSP Miles Briggs says the Scottish government have ‘rushed through’ rent controls this week that have seen the introduction of a rent freeze across Scotland.
The Conservative and Unionist MSP has highlighted how some local housing associations in Edinburgh and Lothians are concerned about the impact of the freeze.
Ahead of the emergency legislation this week, the Director of Prospect Community Housing had told the Scottish Conservatives that rent controls would have an impact on the provision of new homes.
Miles Briggs MSP commented: “The SNP-Green Government have rushed through rent controls this week in Parliament with little time for scrutiny as to what this will mean in practice.
“Housing associations in Lothians have raised concerns directly with me ahead of this vote taking place, yet they have been ignored by SNP-Green ministers who prefer to try and secure good headlines.
“The reality is that their rent freeze could reduce the housing stock available to housing associations across Lothian which is the last thing we need, when the demand is so high.”
He added: “The SNP-Green government’s focus should be on finally achieving their housebuilding targets which they have continually missed. That is a real, long-term solution to support housing associations, as well as those looking to rent or buy.
“This rent freeze is going to be counterproductive and could in fact amplify the housing crisis in Edinburgh and the Lothian’s rather than support those looking to rent.”
The Scottish Government’s tenants’ rights minister, Patrick Harvie, appeared at Holyrood’s Local Government Committee on Tuesday morning and told the committee: "The legislation we’re proposing will help keep people in their homes and help stabilise their housing costs during this extraordinary costs crisis.
“We believe the package of measures strikes the right balance between this aim and ensuring landlords can continue to offer properties for rent and manage tenancies sustainably.”
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