HL Deb 15 January 1996 vol 568 cc41-2WA
Earl Russell

asked Her Majesty's Government:

As a result of the measures to restrict income support for asylum seekers announced on 29 November, what increases they have budgeted for in the number of (a) deportations (b) rough sleepers, and (c) funerals paid for by local authorities.

The Minister of State, Department of Social Security (Lord Mackay of Ardbrecknish)

None. The Government will discuss with local authority associations provisions for a special grant to assist them with net additional costs arising from their obligations to asylum seekers under the homelessness legislation, until these are removed by an order following enactment of the Immigration and Asylum Bill. Help with additional costs which may arise from local authorities' continuing obligations under the Children Act 1989 is also being considered.