§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what discussions he has had with the Council of Mortgage Lenders regarding changes in income support for mortgage interest; what views he received from the council; what plans he has to review his decision; and what further plans he has to meet the Council of Mortgage Lenders for further discussions of his proposals.
§ Mr. Roger EvansWe have on-going discussions with the Council of Mortgage Lenders and will continue to do so throughout the consultation process. The council has expressed concern about the possible impact of the proposals. We are listening carefully to its concerns but believe that these proposals will result in the development of comprehensive quality insurance and will provide better protection for all home owners, not just those who currently get help from income support mortgage interest.
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received from charities for the homeless regarding his proposals for changes in income support for mortgage interest.
§ Mr. Roger EvansWe have received one representation from a charity for the homeless. We hope that all interested parties will take the opportunity to make representations to the Social Security Advisory Committee during its consultation on these proposals.