A housing charity has issued an urgent appeal to MSPs to 'seize the opportunity' on housing spending for Scotland.

Housing investment was the main casualty in the Scottish Government's third annual budget on Thursday, with spending on new homes falling by £204 million or 30 per cent from this year to next. While acknowledging that this has happened because of decisions to bring money forward, Shelter points out that the gap is now huge.

As a result, Shelter Scotland has now written to MSPs putting the case for the cut to be reversed as the budget makes its way through parliament over the next 4 months.

Shelter Scotland's Director, Graeme Brown said: 'This year's budget was trailed as being the tightest since devolution ten years ago.Ministers have warned that efficiencies were needed as never before.

'What could be more efficient than buying land when prices are low? Or employing building workers who otherwise lose their jobs? It is precisely because housing investment is so efficient that I appealed for this to be a Budget for Homes. MSPs need to seize that opportunity.

'Instead, at a time of record numbers stuck in temporary accommodation and rising house waiting lists, we see the brakes slammed on housing spending next year.

'But the publication of the draft Budget is just the start of a long process.  The battle for more housing cash is not over.'

Notes to editors

1. Read Shelter Scotland's budget briefing or contact the media office on 0844 515 2442.
2. Shelter Scotland believes everyone should have a home. The charity helps 170,000 people a year across the UK fight for their rights, get back on their feet, and find and keep a home. We also tackle the root causes of Scotland'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. Follow Shelter Scotland on Facebook; Twitter; Bebo. Or pick up a Twibbon.