We need to close loopholes that allow short-term lets free rein - Lorna Slater

That is why I have continued to press the Scottish Government on the regulation of short-term lets, and particularly those operating without the appropriate licence or planning permission.

Edinburgh has already taken important steps. Our Short-Term Let Control Area means that, with limited exceptions, planning permission is required before an entire home can be used as a short-term let. The licensing system also provides important safeguards around safety and standards. But rules are only worth having if they can be properly enforced.

The City of Edinburgh Council has been taking action against unlicensed operators, including securing a conviction against an unlicensed short-term let operator. That work is important, but councils should not have to fight against loopholes in the system.

Last week, I asked the Scottish Government about one such loophole. Under the current arrangements, an applicant can potentially progress a short-term let licence application while a planning application is still being considered. I asked whether planning permission should instead have to be secured before a licence can be granted, or whether a licence should be capable of being revoked when planning permission is refused.

These may sound like technical questions, but they have real consequences for our housing supply and our communities.

Scotland needs more affordable homes, not more loopholes that allow homes to be turned into commercial accommodation. We need strong regulation that protects residents while allowing responsible tourism businesses to operate.

The Scottish Greens have consistently argued that housing should be treated as a home first, not simply as an investment or a source of profit.

I will continue to press Ministers to close loopholes, strengthen enforcement and ensure Edinburgh’s housing stock works for the people who live here.