§ Sir Hugh Rossiasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will seek powers to vet commercially provided accommodation in respect of which the board and lodging allowance is paid to social security beneficiaries in light of the comments contained in the report on homelessness amongst women, November 1983, by the Women's National Commission and of the Department's own experience in Operation Major.
§ Dr. BoysonNo. Local authorities have powers under housing legislation to inspect houses in multiple occupation and enforce standards. It would not be appropriate to duplicate these responsibilities within the social security system.