Unlike their English counterparts, Scottish landlords can be “considered to be working people” and have the “right to make a return on their investments” confirms Housing Minister Paul McLennan (pictured).

It is the latest sign of a change in the Scottish Government’s approach to the Private Rented Sector (PRS) after the ending of the Bute House Agreement with the Greens.

Contrast to Keir Starmer

This is in direct contrast to Keir Starmer, who said his Government does not consider landlords to be “working people” in the run-up to the recent Budget.

The statement came on a visit to Scottish Letting Day, just before the Minister sat down with SAL Chief Executive, John Blackwood, to discuss topics including rent controls and the legacy of the Bute House Agreement.

We were relieved to hear that the Scottish Government considers landlords to be working people.”

McLennan had said previously that he wants to “reset” the relationship with Scotland’s PRS and has told landlords that they have a key role to play in solving Scotland’s housing crisis.

Scottish Association of Landlords Chief Executive, John Blackwood, said: “Scottish Letting Day 2024 was a huge success, and it was wonderful to have the Housing Minister speak directly to us.

“We were relieved to hear that the Scottish Government considers landlords to be working people and that we have the right to make a return on our investments, signalling that the Government has moved on from the days of the Bute House Agreement.