§ 1. Mr. IllsleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what proposals he has for ending payments of mortgage interest for income support claimants.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Social Security (Mr. Roger Evans)None, but in the course of the long-term review, we are examining and encouraging discussion on all aspects of the benefit system.
§ Mr. IllsleyDoes not it seem a bit strange that the party and the Government who have done so much to encourage home ownership over the past 15 years now see fit to do away with mortgage interest payments—or even to reduce them—when repossessions are running at 1,000 a week? Rather than reducing the assistance available to people who are losing their jobs and who are being placed in difficulties, should not the Government be doing more to help them?
§ Mr. EvansThe hon. Gentleman obviously did not listen to my answer, which was "none". The Government have very much in mind the need to maintain an effective and appropriate safety net for those who purchase their homes.
§ Mr. BrazierI welcome my hon. Friend to his well-deserved new position. Sympathy is obviously required for existing mortgage holders who find themselves in, or close to, difficulties. However, as we are the party that is committed to value for money, is not it time that we drew a line and said that, for future mortgages, the taxpayer is not willing to take on such a burden because private insurance is available? People should in future take that out at the same time as they start their mortgages.
§ Mr. EvansMy hon. Friend has made a point with his customary force. The Government have in mind the importance of an appropriate safety net. Although insurance may have some part to play, it may well not be the complete answer to providing a safety net.