CML news & views

Lower house prices are not making life any easier for first-time buyers. The size of deposit they need is rising, and a growing number are relying on help from the bank of mum and dad. But with falling property prices eroding their parents' equity – and a more gloomy economic outlook – how deep are mum and dad's pockets?

The recently published Rugg review brings a welcome common sense approach to the policy debate about the future of the private rented sector. It wants to encourage good landlords of all sizes to expand their portfolios, and recognises that buy-to-let lending has made a significant contribution to private renting.

New research from the government shows that few consumers have read a home information pack, know what's in them, or understand why they exist.

Lenders are willing to work towards a protocol on court action for possession in Scotland if that is what the Scottish government wants. Meanwhile, our guidance for lenders reinforcing the use of possession only as a last resort already applies across the whole of the UK.