Emma Roddick MSP lodges written questions to address rent hikes

Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick has lodged a written question to the Scottish Government after she was removed from the list of speakers for today’s statement on the Housing Emergency.

The question was submitted after reports emerged that the rent adjudication system, set up to provide a fair process for both landlords and tenants, had resulted in decisions that increased rents beyond what the landlord had initially requested. The MSP said it was a crucial issue for tenants in her region and across Scotland, especially as the housing crisis continues to worsen.

Ms Roddick has a strong track record of raising housing issues in Parliament and has frequently spoken out about the impact of the housing crisis in the Highlands and Islands. She has previously voiced her belief that homes should be for people, not profit, and has campaigned to ensure tenants’ rights are protected.

Ms Roddick has worked closely with tenants and organisations like Living Rent to push for improvements to the system and was due to raise the issue in the Scottish Parliament today.

Commenting, Ms Roddick said:

“I am disappointed that I was not able to ask my question in Parliament today, as it is a matter of great importance to my constituents who are worried about their security of tenure and soaring rents.

“It is deeply concerning that a system designed to protect tenants could be backfiring and making their situations even worse. This is not how the system is meant to work, and I have had constituents getting in touch who have been left in a more precarious position by the impossible rents in Inverness and Nairn.

“I have lodged a written question to the Scottish Government to ensure this issue is still heard. I will continue to hold the Scottish Government to account on behalf of the people of the Highlands and Islands on this vital issue.”