The emergency coronavirus legislation brought in by the Scottish Government has so far, provided crucial protections on issues such as housing.

Mike Russell, constitution secretary, told MSPs yesterday that ministers will seek to extend the legislation from its expiry date of September 30 to March 31, although some of the provisions in the legislation may not be renewed.

Alison Watson, Shelter Scotland director, said that the announcement “falls short of providing the clarity and reassurance tenants worried about losing their home so desperately need”.

She said: “With unemployment rising and pressure on household finances increasing, the government must take concrete steps to keep people in their homes.

“It’s clear that ministers recognise the social case for an extension of protections against eviction. But struggling tenants need definite answers and legal protections now, not more fear and uncertainty.”

Mike Russell said yesterday: “We’re giving very careful consideration to the details of such an extension.

“We’re mindful of the call from stakeholders that provisions of the legislation in its areas such as housing have provided vital protections for individuals throughout the pandemic and that there is a continuing need for them.

“But we’re equally mindful of the commitments we’ve made – and which I have regularly reiterated – that such legislation must not be in place for a moment longer than is necessary.”