Why hasn’t the government extended the eviction ban?

We’ve seen a series of late U-turns from this government, writes Ashley Cowburn – but will people have to lose their homes before it reconsiders the decision not to extend the ban?

Homelessness charities have warned tens of thousands could be evicted (Getty)

Over the past three months there has been a steady stream of alarming stories about the government’s decision to end the moratorium on evictions for renters – a policy introduced as Britain went into lockdown.

Charities have warned tens of thousands are at risk of losing their homes, public health bodies have urged caution over a rise in coronavirus infections, and the mayor of Greater Manchester has suggested the city faces homelessness on a scale not seen since the 1930s.

Acting on the warnings, the Scottish government has hinted at plans to extend the eviction ban until spring 2021. In England and Wales, however, the policy expires on 23 August and from Monday courts can once again resume possession proceedings.