Musselburgh’s MSP has welcomed measures to protect renters from eviction during the coronavirus pandemic.

Colin Beattie, SNP, who also represents Midlothian North, highlighted the Scottish Government announcement of a six-month ban on evictions.

Emergency legislation will increase the minimum notice period for private and social tenants to up to six months, depending on the grounds used.

The Coronavirus (Scotland) Bill, which contains substantial further powers and measures to ensure essential public services can continue throughout the coronavirus outbreak, was introduced in the Scottish Parliament last week.

Mr Beattie said: “We must all work together to meet this challenge, which is why measures to prevent evictions and relieve some of the financial pressure people in Midlothian and East Lothian may be facing due to the coronavirus crisis are welcome.

“The Scottish Government has also encouraged all landlords to be as flexible as possible during this unprecedented time, and I would urge them to also seek assistance, if necessary, by speaking to their lenders about mortgage breaks.

“No one should face losing their home as a result of this coronavirus pandemic.

“The move to ban evictions during this crisis will bring security to people’s lives when they need it most.”