HC Deb 25 May 1989 vol 153 cc682-3W
Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will now conduct an urgent investigation into the circumstances in which his Department granted hostel status to the premises in 9A Oliver crescent, Harwick, run by the charity called the Reflections Trust 1987 Ltd.; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

It is not the responsibility of this Department to grant hostel status to any establishment. The income support general regulations define "hostel" for income support purposes. Whether or not an establishment is a hostel is a matter of fact for determination by the adjudication officer in considering individual claims for benefit.

Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what procedures are used to investigate the bona fide nature of Scottish charitable organisations which apply for Department of Social Security hostel status.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

The Department does not routinely investigate the nature of charitable organisations in Scotland. There are therefore no set procedures.

Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security whether his Department is currently considering any application for Department of Social Security hostel status for any premises situated in Scotland and managed by the Reflections Trust 1987 Ltd.

Mr. Peter Lloyd

We know of no such premises which are currently under consideration.

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