Press Release
MP Advocates Even More Protection For Homeowners
Tom Clarke MP wants tougher Government action to protect people in debt, especially homeowners as he visited Bellshill Citizens Advice Bureaux to consult with the Manager and staff about the consequences of the Credit Crunch.
Mr Clarke said: “I want to be sure that all the appropriate agencies including the DWP, North Lanarkshire Council and the voluntary sector such as CAB are co-operating and working jointly to help people through difficult times”.
“The Government has introduced new curbs on home repossessions which will prevent families from being evicted when they fall into financial difficulties. Increased unemployment will undoubtedly lead to mortgage defaults; people who lose their jobs will be unable to maintain monthly payments on their homes. Given that the Government has ploughed billions of pounds of public money into rescuing banks, taxpayers are entitled to expect an altogether more compassionate response from lenders”.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown said new guidance was being given to the courts to halt actions to repossess properties unless. all alternatives had been fully examined. The new protocol sets out clear guidance on the steps lenders will have to take before bringing a repossession claim to a court, to ensure that it is a last resort.
In a bold statement issued by the MP he said: “This Global Crisis required Government intervention to avoid financial meltdown and thereby sustain the banking industry. Therefore hardworking homeowners who lose their jobs should not live in fear of losing their home too. The terrifying prospect of home repossession is an option that should not be the last resort; by moratorium it should be completely removed, at least until there is a more stable financial position”.
Mr Stephen Rees, Manager of Bellshill & District Citizens Advice Bureau said: “We value the close relationship with our Member of Parliament and look forward to continuing to work together for the benefit of the community. The visit from Tom Clarke MP was a great morale boost to all the staff”.