Damp Housing

Part of the debate – in the Scottish Parliament on 20 April 2023.

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Photo of Liam McArthur Liam McArthur Liberal Democrat

I encourage those who are leaving the public gallery and the chamber to do so as quickly and quietly as possible.

The next item of business is a members’ business debate on motion S6M-07511, in the name of Foysol Choudhury, on damp housing in Scotland. The debate will be concluded without any question being put.

Motion debated,

That the Parliament notes the tragic death of Awaab Ishak due to mouldy housing; notes the view that there is a need for urgent action to avoid similar tragedies happening in Scotland, including in the Lothian region; recognises that mould and damp in homes can be dangerous and cause health problems; understands that the cost of living crisis has caused constituents across Scotland to avoid heating their homes, which can further exacerbate the problem of damp and mould; further understands that damp housing is disproportionately affecting those living in poverty; acknowledges the calls for every constituent in Scotland to have a right to safe, warm housing; notes the view that extra investment for a whole house retrofitting programme is required to tackle problems caused by damp housing; further notes the calls for the creation of a grant scheme to tackle the problems of damp housing across the housing sector, including social housing, housing associations and the private sector; notes the belief that there is a need for increased support and guidance for constituents on the prevention of damp in properties across Scotland; believes that this issue is of nationwide importance, and notes the calls for all political parties in the Parliament to collaborate to tackle damp housing in Scotland.