Repossessions close to 1992 level, figures show

Nearly 30,000 repossessions were ordered in the second quarter of this year, official figures have shown.

The Guardian reports that the statistics from the Ministry of Justice represent the highest level since 1992, having risen by 24 per cent compared to the same time last year.

Speaking in response, shadow chief secretary to the Treasury Philip Hammond blamed the government for encouraging a 'spend now, pay later' culture, although housing minister Caroline Flint said support would be given to those struggling to meet mortgage repayments.

Chief executive of housing charity Shelter Adam Sampson told the newspaper that the number of people seeking help over repossession actions had risen by 55 per cent in the last six months.

"Every day Shelter is seeing more and more people who are terrified of losing their homes," he explained, adding that lenders are "still using repossession as the first, rather than last resort, despite being urged not to".

Last week Citizens Advice called for providers to treat those in mortgage arrears fairly, encouraging them to negotiate.

How can I get repossessions stopped