Predictions by experts that the number of homes repossessed this year could increase to 45000 (from 26200 last year) has led to a warning from Yvette Cooper, Treasury Minister, that rules on repossession may have to be tightened to force lenders to be a little more understanding towards those experiencing debt problems and falling behind with mortgage repayments as a result.

So far so good although, of course, a mortgage is a secured debt and it is common knowledge that your house can be repossessed if you don’t keep up the payments on it. What I would like to know is what action will Ms Cooper take to prevent banks, such as the RBS Group, from trying to seize properties for what were essentially unsecured debts by applying for Charging Orders with the sole intent of trying to force an Order for Sale through the Courts once the Final Charging Order has been obtained?