HC Deb 22 July 1980 vol 989 cc180-1W
Mr. Meacher

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment on what basis he took the decision to reject the application of a hostel deficit grant which had been made by five hostels run by Turning Point, which were previously approved by his Department for a grant under circular 21/73.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

It is not the case that these hostels have previously been approved by the Department for a grant under circular 21/73. An application for hostel deficit grant (HDG) under the Housing Act 1974 has been received for the five hostels for which Department of Health and Social Security grants under circular 21/73 are due to end by 31 March 1981. These five hostels are not acceptable under the normal rules used for assessing eligibility for hostel deficit grant.

Mr. Meacher

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what levels of topping up were involved in each of the cases where hostels' hostel deficit grant applications have recently been approved; and, in general, what level of topping up case costs are acceptable to his Department in respect of these applications.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

In recent cases topping up costs have been allowed between three and four times the normal management costs provided for by the Department's allowances. In considering applications for hostel deficit grant and the level of topping up costs which are acceptable, each case is considered on its merits. The principal factors which are taken into account are the main purpose of the hostel, the responsibilities of the management staff, their number in relation to the number of residents, and the total management costs in relation to the normal management allowances.