Local MSP Allan Wilson said:
"Debt problems can affect all of us
at some point in our lives and especially so around Christmas time. That
is why it is so vital the right advice and information is available to
those who need it. These packs will offer accessible and simple information
about dealing with debt and directing people to their local money advice
services.
This Bill heralds major reforms to
give people new opportunities to deal with their debts free from the threat
of enforcement whilst balancing the legitimate rights of creditors with
greater protection for vulnerable debtors. There will be new incentives
for debtors and creditors to reach negotiated settlements and a new, less
intrusive enforcement procedure which will target only those who can pay
but won’t” said Mr Wilson.
“What the Scottish Executive is doing
should reduce the stigma associated with debt and give people direction
to access money advice services throughout the country and tools to pay
their debts in a way they can manage.
I am certain that this Bill will benefit
a great number of people across North Ayrshire giving them the advice and
help they really need."
A sum of £3 million for additional
free money advice services was announced a year ago. This has allowed over
100 new money advisers to be put in place across the country to meet anticipated
increased demand.
The Bill provides a framework for
a national debt arrangement scheme. The scheme is a new debt management
tool that will allow multiple debts to be paid over a period by single,
regular and manageable payments distributed through a central point.
All enforcement action will be stopped
whilst participating in the scheme and Regulations now need to be made
under the Bill to set out the detailed arrangements for the scheme
For Further Information Contact Allan
Wilson MSP (01294) 605040.
Information packs available from the
Justice Department, Civil and International Group –
Tel: 0131 244
4835 - e-mail
gerry.flynn@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
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