Glasgow councillors are being asked to reaffirm their support for rent controls as part of the amendments proposed for the Housing Bill.

The Housing (Scotland) Bill which was introduced earlier this year looks to change the law in relation to housing, provide more protection for tenants, prevent homelessness and other housing matters.

A motion to reaffirm council support for rent controls ahead of the stage two consideration of the Housing Bill is being presented by Bailie Seonad Hoy to members of the City Council this Thursday.

It comes after the trade unions including the STUC, UNISON, Unite, GMB, ASLEF and  Living Rent confirmed their support for rent controls which limit or set rent levels. 

Findings from the city’s Tenant-Led Housing Commission for the private sector have previously highlighted that “Glasgow has a rent crisis for many in the private rented sector”. 

The commission wants the local authority to work in partnership with the Scottish Government to introduce a robust and measured approach to a points-based system of rent controls.

This would be based on the standard and/or condition of the property and give an incentive to landlords to invest in their properties, as a means of justifying rent levels.

Recent polls also show that 82% of people in Scotland support rent controls.

Bailie Hoy’s motion states: “Council will continue to work constructively through COSLA and with the Scottish Government to address any concerns about rent controls, whilst remaining steadfast in its support for the introduction of robust rent controls as part of the Housing Bill.”

Members will now be asked to approve a letter from the Leader of the Council to the Scottish Minister for Housing to reaffirm the Council’s support for robust rent controls within the Housing Bill.

They will also be asked to approve further involvement in the development of guidance by the Scottish Government around rent control measures.