Rent and Rates

HC Deb 07 March 1973 vol 852 cc168-9W

Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many persons are now withholding payment of rent and rates, respectively, in Strabane; to what extent they are in receipt of social security benefits; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Mills

Of approximately 540 people in Strabane withholding rent and rates due to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, 320 are normally in receipt of social security benefits, and deductions are being made from such benefits to meet the rent debt.

Of the 48 people in private housing withholding rates for 1971–72 due to Strabane Urban District Council, 12 are receiving social security benefits.