HC Deb 22 February 1977 vol 926 c528W
Mr. Fitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether any person in Great Britain has had his or her social security payments deducted to pay rent arrears to the local housing authority.

Mr. Deakins

Benefits payable under the Social Security Act 1975 are inalienable. Supplementary benefit in respect of rent, payable under the Supplementary Benefits Act 1976, is paid direct to a local housing authority or other landlord if a claimant persistently defaults. Such payments may include a small sum for arrears in appropriate cases.