§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the latest estimate of the number of homeless people under the age of 21 years in Scotland; and what is the breakdown of that figure in terms of age and sex.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownThere are no figures available on which a realistic estimate can be based.
§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his estimate of the number of hostel places or other residential places to cater for the needs of young homeless people in Scotland.
§ Mr McElhoneIt is not possible to make such an estimate centrally. The range of accommodation which may be used by homeless young people is very wide, and not all of it is provided by or registered with local authorities.
§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will take steps to provide advice centres for homeless young people in public places such as major railway stations in Scotland.
§ Mr. McElhoneThere is no evidence that any urban area in Scotland attracts large numbers of young people having this kind of problem.