HC Deb 29 April 1996 vol 276 cc381-2W
Mr. Chris Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what funding has been earmarked within the Department for the carrying out of duties hitherto undertaken by the Resettlement Agency, what account will be taken of the needs of single homeless people in determining the level and type of programme to be administered under the new arrangements; if the funding available for resettlement units will be ring-fenced; and if he will make a statement. [24836]

Mr. Roger Evans

In excess of £21,000,000 will be made available by DSS headquarters in 1996–97 through revenue and capital support, these grants having previously been administered by the Resettlement Agency.

Following the repeal of schedule 5 to the Supplementary Benefits Act 1976, as amended, section 30 of the Jobseekers Act 1995 enables the Secretary of State to continue to support provision for single, unsettled, homeless persons in accommodation owned and operated by local authority and voluntary organisations.

Mr. Kynoch

[holding answer 26 April 1996]: These are matters for Scottish Natural Heritage. I have asked the chairman of SNH to write to the hon. Member.