James Jopling, Head of Campaigns at Shelter Scotland, housing and homelessness charity, gave a 'cautious' welcome to the scheme.

He said: 'We welcome the investment in a scheme designed to allow more people a chance to buy a first property. What is important is that this support for homeowners is well-targeted and will provide long-lasting benefit. Public funds must not further feed already bloated house prices.

'However, what this scheme won't do is help people for whom buying 60 per cent of a house is still way out of reach. With over 9,000 individuals and families in temporary accommodation and around 200,000 on house waiting lists, the big priority must be to increase real choice for those excluded from decent housing. And that means delivering much more affordable housing for rent.'

Notes to Editors

1. Shelter Scotland, along with other housing organisations, are calling for 30,000 affordable rented homes for Scotland. 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