§ Mr. Boyesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has as to action taken by local authorities in Tyne and Wear on cases referred to them in accordance with his Department's circular S 12/85 on substandard board and lodging accommodation.
§ Mr. NewtonI understand that local authorities in the Tyne and Wear area have taken action in two cases following reference to them in accordance with the Department's circular S 12/85. The details of any such action are of course the responsibility of the local authorities concerned—the boroughs of Sunderland and South Tyneside—and the hon. Member may therefore wish to consult them direct.
§ Mr. Phillip Oppenheimasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps have been taken to ensure the payment of arrears of supplementary benefit board and lodging allowances following the statement to the House on 17 December 1985 by the Minister for Social Security, the hon. Member for Braintree (Mr. Newton).
554Wcorrespondence between the Solicitor-General and the Secretary of State for Defence: and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime Minister[pursuant to her reply, 13 January 1986]: An inquiry has been instituted.