§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what guidelines his Department plans to issue to local authorities concerning rent referrals to local rent officers under the proposed changes to housing benefit. [26538]
§ Mr. Roger EvansIn March this year we issued to all local authorities a circular, HB/CTBA6/95, and a summary of our proposals to take effect from October. Following formal consultation, we are currently considering the report from the social security advisory116W committee, and the representations from local authority associations, before reaching final decisions. We will then issue further guidance to all local authorities and will keep the need for additional material under review, in line with our normal practice.