§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales in what circumstances the homeless in Gwynedd or Clwyd are told that the only hostel provision available for them is in Liverpool; and if he is satisfied with existing hostel accommodation for homeless persons in these two counties.
§ Mr. Alec JonesI am not aware of cases of homeless persons from Gwynedd 821W or Clwyd being accommodated in hostels in Liverpool. District councils have a duty to provide accommodation for the priority categories of homeless persons, but it is a matter for their judgment whether the immediate need is met by the use of hostels or in some other way.
§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will send a circular to each of the 37 local housing authorities in Wales drawing to their attention the fact that it is not necessary for a person threatened with homelessness, within the definition of the Housing (Homeless Persons) Act 1977, to provide a court order to prove his impending homelessness.
§ Mr. Alec JonesThis point is already covered by paragraph A1.3 in the annex to the code of guidance which was issued to all local housing authorities in Wales under cover of Welsh Office Circular 178/77.