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The RAAC crisis has left many homeowners in Scotland and across the UK grappling with significant uncertainty about the safety of their homes and their financial futures. Local councils and government bodies have acknowledged the issue, but there remain critical gaps in transparency and inclusivity in addressing these concerns.
Recently, Mr. Wilson Chowdhry was informed by the Provost of West Lothian Council that he cannot participate in a follow-up meeting with Housing Minister Paul McLennan. The explanation provided was that this meeting is considered a "political" one between the council and the Scottish Government, which precludes the involvement of third parties.
This decision is particularly puzzling given his role as Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, where he represents the interests of affected homeowners and acts as an expert witness on the issue. His involvement would seem both relevant and beneficial, ensuring the concerns of those most impacted are effectively communicated and addressed. Excluding representatives of affected groups from such critical discussions undermines the principle of collaborative problem-solving and risks leaving key questions unanswered.
Adding to the complexity, the Scottish Parliament Petitions Committee was recently asked whether Mr. Chowdhry could participate in evidence hearing sessions that may arise as a consequence of his official petition. The Committee clarified that any decision to gather additional evidence, and from whom, would be made at a future stage. While the Convener mentioned the possibility of inviting the Housing Minister to provide evidence, the Committee indicated that Mr. Chowdhry would not be able to participate in such a session, as the Minister would appear as a witness to answer questions from Committee Members. However, Mr. Chowdhry would have the opportunity to submit written evidence, including concerns raised by homeowners, to inform the Committee’s lines of questioning. The Committee also noted that a separate decision would be required to invite Mr. Chowdhry to provide evidence in person, which would occur independently of the Minister’s session. While he was encouraged to write directly to the Minister to request a meeting, the Committee emphasized that arranging such a meeting would be at the Minister’s discretion and outside the Committee’s remit.
Background: What Has Been Done So Far?
West Lothian Council has taken steps to engage with the Scottish Government regarding RAAC. According to correspondence from the Provost and the Head of Housing, Customer & Building Services, the council has:
- Written to the Scottish Government to request financial support for homeowners affected by RAAC.
- Held a series of meetings with affected homeowners in May 2024.
- Presented the specific concerns of these homeowners directly to the Housing Minister, Paul McLennan, during a meeting on 8th July 2024.
While these actions demonstrate some progress, the decision to exclude third-party representatives like Mr. Chowdhry and his deputy, Kerry Mackintosh—a campaigner since 2004—from follow-up discussions raises questions about transparency and inclusivity. Homeowners, who are the most affected, should have their voices heard, either directly or through those they trust to represent them.
Conflicting Guidance: A Call for Clarity
Adding to the complexity, both the Scottish Parliament Petition Committee and the Provost of West Lothian Council have suggested that Mr. Chowdhry approach the Housing Minister directly to discuss the issues faced by RAAC-affected homeowners. In the latest correspondence, the Provost stated:
"However, it may be that if you were to contact the Minister for Housing direct that he would be available to meet with you to discuss the full range of issues that are being raised with you in your capacity as the chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group."
Mr. Chowdhry commented:
"The guidance seems contradictory. If I am being encouraged to contact the Minister for a separate meeting, why is my participation in the follow-up meeting deemed inappropriate? This raises serious questions about the accessibility of decision-makers to those representing affected groups and whether these processes are genuinely designed to serve the public interest."
He added:
"Despite multiple requests for a meeting with Minister Paul McLennan, he has declined each time. My most recent request, sent over four weeks ago, remains unanswered. This lack of engagement is deeply concerning given the urgency and severity of the RAAC crisis."
A Call for Transparency and Inclusion
The RAAC crisis is not merely a political issue; it is a public safety and financial crisis affecting thousands of homeowners. Political meetings that exclude key stakeholders risk alienating the very people they aim to support.
While councils and governments have taken steps to address the crisis, more needs to be done to ensure affected parties are included in discussions and decisions. Collaborative approaches involving councils, government representatives, expert witnesses, and homeowners are essential to building trust and delivering meaningful solutions.
As campaigners and advocates, we will continue to press for transparency, inclusivity, and accountability. We encourage affected homeowners to raise their concerns directly with the Housing Minister and will demand a seat at the table where decisions about their futures are being made.
Kerry Mackintosh, Deputy Chair of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, said:
"The exclusion of expert opinion has undoubtedly contributed to the disconnect between the goals of the Government, local councils, and the needs of the affected homeowners. This crisis continues to drive many families toward destitution, leaving them in ever-deepening despair."
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