Compared to their UK counterparts, landlords in Scotland can be “deemed to be workers” and have a “right to profit from their investments”, Housing Secretary Paul McLennan (pictured) has admitted.
This is the latest sign of a change in the Scottish Government's approach to the private rented sector (PRS) following the end of the Bute House agreement with the Greens. 
In contrast to Keir Starmer
This is in stark contrast to Keir Starmer, who said in the lead-up to the recent Budget that the government does not consider landlords to be “working people”.
The statement was made during a visit to Scottish Letting Day, just before the minister met with SAL chief executive John Blackwood to discuss topics including rent regulation and the legacy of the Bute House Agreement. .
We were relieved to hear that the Scottish Government considers landlords to be workers. ”
Mr McLennan has previously said he wants to “reset” Scotland's relationship with PRS, telling landlords it will play a key role in solving Scotland's housing crisis.
John Blackwood, CEO of the Scottish Landlords Association, said: “Scottish Rental Day 2024 was a huge success and it was great to have the Housing Secretary speak directly to us.” .
“It is reassuring to hear that the Scottish Government considers landowners to be workers and that we have a right to profit from our investments, showing that the Scottish Government has moved on from the days of the Bute House Agreement. did.
