Housing charity Shelter Scotland has welcomed the commitment on homelessness made by Alex Salmond today at First Minister's Questions (14 June).

However, the charity warns that proof of the pudding will be investment in more affordable homes.

Shelter says that it is the first clear statement of support by the SNP leader for Scotland's internationally-acclaimed target to give all homeless people the right to a home by 2012.

Labour leader, Jack McConnell asked the First Minster if he would commit to the target. Alex Salmond said that he would and that further details would be given in a housing debate next week.

Shelter Scotland Director, Archie Stoddart, said: 'Support for the 2012 target was missing from the SNP manifesto so I am delighted that the new Executive has now confirmed its support for the target which was first set in law in 2003.

'In his first speech as First Minister, Mr Salmond called for greater ambition for Scotland. I am delighted that, on homelessness, he has recognised that Scotland is leading the way in Europe and has backed this ambitious social policy.

'The big challenge now will be to secure investment in a targeted programme of 30,000 affordable homes for rent over the next three years so that the ambition can be turned into reality.'

Notes to Editors

1. Shelter Scotland, along with other housing organisations, are calling for 30,000 affordable rented homes for Scotland through this year's comprehensive spending review. For more information visit the media room at www.shelter.org.uk/csr_media
2. Shelter believes everyone should have a home and helps 170,000 people a year fight for their rights, get back on their feet, and find and keep a home. We also tackle the root causes of Britain's housing crisis by campaigning for new laws, policies and solutions.
3. Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
4. For more information about Shelter visit www.shelter.org.uk