§ Mr. Allan StewartTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he intends to conduct a consultation exercise on powers relating to houses in multiple occupation in Scotland.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe Scottish Development Department has published today a consultation paper on problems relating to houses in multiple occupation in Scotland. The paper is being sent to local authorities and other interested organisations in Scotland. I have also arranged for copies to be placed in the Library. The paper identifies the need to protect both the occupiers of HMOs themselves and the right to a peaceful environment of those living nearby. It also seeks views on a wide range of issues, including the possibility of establishing a licensing system for HMOs. The Government look forward to receiving comments on the proposals in the paper. This should allow the Government to tackle in a considered way the serious problems caused by HMOs in certain parts of Scotland.