Responding to the announcements made by the UK Government [1], James Jopling, Head of Campaigns, Shelter Scotland, housing and homelessness charity, said:

'The package of measures shows the UK Government is listening, trying and taking all the steps it could. However what has been announced will still be dwarfed by the massive scale of the housing crisis and will be very limited in helping enough homeowners or turning the market around.

He added: 'Some of the measures announced have already been brought forward by the Scottish Government, not least extended help for homeowners faced with repossessions [2] and pulling forward investment for affordable housing [3], but we must not think the job is done. We must face this problem head on and ensure continued help for struggling homeowners and the increased provision of good quality, affordable homes.'

Notes to editors

1. The announcements from the Westminster Government that relate to Scotland are ISMI reform, and stamp duty reforms.
2. Scottish Government expand Mortgage to Rent scheme in Scotland. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2008/06/25142815
3. Scottish Government announced up to £100 million was being pulled forward from the overall spend for this year and next year. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2008/08/19154002
4. 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.  
5. Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
6. For more information about Shelter visit www.shelter.org.uk