The ban on private rental evictions in Scotland has been formally extended by two months, with a high expectation that a similar approach will be announced in England.

The previous ban was due to expire on January 22 but First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says evictions would now only go ahead in limited cases such as anti-social behaviour or domestic abuse.

Sturgeon says: “It’s become even more important to stop people from needing to find a new home or perhaps from having to move in with a different household.

“For that reason the regulations to prevent the enforcement of eviction notices will be extended until March 31 in all Level 3 and Level 4 areas, which of course right now is the entirety of Scotland.

“And if necessary the regulations can be extended further after that date.”