§ Mr. Patrick ThompsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what changes he proposes to make to the test of resources for house renovation grants; and what further guidance is to be given to local authorities on the provisions of part VIII of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
§ Mr. YeoRegulations uprating the allowances and premiums used to assess the eligibility of applicants for house renovation grants, including those to help provide facilities for disabled people, came into force today. These changes are in line with the annual uprating applied to 229W other income related benefits on which the test of resources is based. Departmental circular 5/91, which was published on 24 April, explains the effect of the new regulations and gives advice on other matters relating to the implementation of parts VII and VIII of the 1989 Act.