Oral Answers to Questions

Peter Grant Excerpts

Wednesday 28th June 2023 Commons Chamber

[Steven Bonnar (Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill) (SNP)]

4. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the impact of cost of living increases on households in Scotland.

[Peter Grant (Glenrothes) (SNP)]

5. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the impact of cost of living increases on households in Scotland.

[Chris Stephens (Glasgow South West) (SNP)]

7. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the impact of cost of living increases on households in Scotland.

--- Later in debate ---

[John Lamont]

We do not accept that analysis. We recognise that this is a worrying time for homeowners and mortgage holders, but we cannot ignore the fact that interest rates have risen across western economies as a result of the pandemic and the impact of the war in Ukraine. The Government remain committed to responsible economic management to bring inflation back under control, which is the only way to achieve sustainably lower interest rates and mortgage rates.

[Peter Grant]

It is not just homeowners who are affected by spiralling interest rates; they also contribute to an average rent increase of over 8%. The Scottish Government are doing their bit, using the limited powers they have. They have extended the rent cap and extended the evictions freeze into March, so that nobody in Scotland will be thrown out of their house because they are poor; and of course in Scotland, thanks to the Scottish National party, we are not selling off council houses but building more of them. What exactly are his Government doing to protect tenants in Scotland and to prevent an increase in homelessness?

[John Lamont]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. I know he recently announced that he will be standing down at the next election, and while he and I clearly do not agree politically, his eight years of service to the people of Glenrothes is worthy of recognition.

As I said previously, tackling inflation is this Government’s priority. It is the best way to support mortgage holders and the people who rent accommodation.