§ Mr. MilburnTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to allow social fund grants and loans to be applied for the purpose of rent bonds; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ScottSocial fund budgeting and crisis loans can be paid to provide help with rent in advance. Assistance with deposits is specifically excluded from the social fund. There are no present plans to change these arrangements.
However, I am always ready to consider proposals for improvements and hold regular discussions with the voluntary and other organisations involved. I shall also be looking with interest at the outcome of a pilot deposit scheme in west London currently being sponsored by the Department of the Environment.