Scottish government ‘considering’ measures to prevent evictions due to coronavirus

It comes after Labour shadow housing secretary John Healey drew up draft legislation to prevent landlords in England from evicting tenants who fail to pay the rent after being out of work because of the pandemic.

Mr Stewart said the Scottish government’s discussion around evictions “is part of our urgent consideration on what wider measures can be put in place to support people against the economic impacts of coronavirus and further announcement will be made”. 

He added: “People affected by coronavirus who are concerned about paying their rent can claim Universal Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions, which includes support for housing costs, if eligible. The UK government has introduced some temporary changes to make this easier.”

During last week’s Budget, the UK government announced that the minimum income floor for Universal Credit will be temporarily removed for people who are self-employed and said there will be no need to physically visit job centres throughout the pandemic. 

The move was part of a £12bn plan to respond to the economic impact of coronavirus, including a £500m boost to the welfare system – making it easier for those who do not qualify for sick pay to access benefits. 

It is expected that the government will soon unveil additional financial plans to help the economy after prime  minister Boris Johnson last night told the population to avoid all “non-essential” contact, meaning staying away from places such as restaurants and pubs, and working at home where possible.