§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what his policy is on eradicating bed and breakfast accommodation for homeless people; if this will exclude the use of hotel accommodation; and when full implementation will be achieved. [61093]
§ Mr. McNultyIn March this year the then Secretary of State announced a £35 million programme to ensure that by March 2004 no homeless family with children is in a bed and breakfast hotel for more than six weeks. High using local authorities have submitted action plans showing how they will reduce numbers and length of stay for homeless families with children, including the applications resources to support them. These are currently under consideration and it is expected that announcements will be made shortly.
§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will give special financial assistance to Castle Point borough council to meet its statutory responsibility for statutory homelessness in the borough; and if he will make a statement. [61095]
§ Mr. McNultyIn responding to the March 2002 report "More than a roof', the Government announced that they would allocate £125 million in 2002–03 to tackle homelessness. The Government have already provided local authorities with an additional £8 million per annum in Revenue Support Grant to help them meet their new statutory obligations under the Homelessness Act 2002.122W All housing authorities will also receive a share of an additional £10 million in 2002–03 to enable them to deliver our proposed Order to extend the priority need groups under part VII of the Housing Act 1996.
On 14 March 2002, authorities were invited to submit proposals to the new Homelessness Directorate in my Department for funding for local homelessness strategies These are being considered at the moment.