Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil has welcomed moves to deal sensitively with mortgage customers facing financial difficulty.

NatWest and RBS have committed not to commence repossession proceedings for a full six months after a customer first falls into arrears.


Alex Neil said: "It is encouraging to see banks taking steps to help the many Scots who find themselves caught in a debt trap, putting family homes - and families - at risk.

"The recent successful passage of the Home Owner and Debtor Protection (Scotland) Bill demonstrated this Government's commitment to introduce more protection for homeowners.

"I am pleased that Natwest and RBS have recognised the strength of feeling evident among all political parties on this issue and have acted accordingly."

(GK/BMcC)