§ Mr. Home RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to develop the case for a wider concept of social housing in Scotland in the context of Her Majesty's Government's policies concerning such a concept for Britain as a whole.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe creation of wider choice is one of the main aims of the Government's housing policies. There are accordingly many aspects of current policy towards housing in Scotland which contribute towards that aim. In relation to the provision of housing for rent we have emphasised the need to develop alternatives to traditional patterns of renting from local authorities. These include tenant co-operatives and housing associations. In addition, a range of other landlords may emerge in response to the Government's extension of tenants' rights through the tenants' choice proposals contained in part III of the Housing (Scotland) Bill.
My right hon. and learned Friend and I are furthering these developments through the Housing (Scotland) Bill, through increased funding for housing associations and co-operatives and through our general efforts to encourage diversity and choice.
§ Mr. Home RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take to ensure that new owners of council housing under the provisions of the Housing (Scotland) Bill do not realise short-term profits through the use of these assets for purposes other than meeting urgent housing needs.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonUnder the tenants' choice provisions in part III of the Housing (Scotland) Bill, Iandlords will require Scottish Homes' approval before they can exercise the right conferred by that part to acquire a house from a public sector landlord. Scottish Homes will approve only reputable landlords under these powers. The approval of Scottish Homes will also be required to the first disposal of any property acquired by a landlord under the tenants' choice provisions. Scottish Homes will take into account all relevant information and local circumstances, including the local renting market, before deciding whether to approve such a disposal. These safeguards will effectively prevent abuses of the type suggested.