Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his policy for encouraging the establishment of hostels in London and other cities able to provide accommodation for single homeless persons; and if he will make a statement.
Sir George YoungThe Government are carrying out a major expansion in the provision of modern hostels. Since May 1979, the Housing Corporation has approved hostel and other shared housing schemes providing over 7,500 bedspaces using funds allocated by my Department. The Department also provides revenue support for housing associations to meet deficits incurred in hostel management.