The proposal from Scottish Greens MSP Maggie Chapman has been lodged as an amendment to the upcoming Housing (Scotland) Bill.

The amendment, which would build on the temporary eviction ban overseen by then Green Minister Patrick Harvie, would protect tenants by banning evictions between November and March each year.

In 2022, as part of the Scottish Government, the Greens secured temporary protections for tenants, giving peace of mind to those at risk of homelessness during the harshest months.

Ms Chapman said: “Everyone deserves stability and a warm and safe place to call home. Evictions are really stressful for renters, particularly during a cold winter where temperatures are low and budgets are tight.

“The temporary protections that the Scottish Greens introduced to curb winter evictions were crucial in protecting people and families struggling to get through the coldest, harshest months of the year.

“It is vital that we make these changes permanent. That means taking action to ensure that nobody is at risk of eviction over winter in Scotland. That is why I am lodging these proposals and calling for permanent protections to be put in place.

“Scotland is in a housing emergency, and evictions only intensify this issue. There must be measures taken to ensure that things do not worsen for renters who need our support.

“I hope that my colleagues across the chamber will back my call and protect Scottish renters next winter, and every winter that follows.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Scotland provides renters with some of the strongest protections from eviction anywhere in the UK. Landlords cannot ask tenants to leave without reason, so tenants can assert their rights without fear of eviction and we would hope no one is forced out of their homes over the winter period.

“The Housing Bill delivers on our New Deal For Tenants and implements a national system of rent controls.”