§ Mrs. GormanTo ask the Secretary of State For Scotland if he will make a statement on the progress of his rents-into-mortgages scheme; if he has any plans to extend its scope; how many tenants have made firm applications; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonResponse to the scheme has been encouraging so far and indications are that it is attracting the interest of the intended target group. As at 30 April, Scottish Homes the body responsible for the administration of the scheme had received 135 firm applications to purchase. The scheme will continue to be closely monitored with a view to evaluating the case for any adaptations or extensions which appear to be appropriate.