§ Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will seek powers to end the present practice of local authorities paying for homeless families to travel to another authority which is then obliged to house them.
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§ Mr. FreesonHomelessness should, as far as possible, be dealt with by the local authority of the area where the need exists. The practice referred to by the hon. Member is occasionally justifiable, but only when used responsibly. I do not, however, regard this as a suitable field for legislation.
§ Mr. Lomasasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will seek to amend the Local Government Act 1972 to make it an obligation, rather than an option, to attend to the problems of the homeless; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreesonI am examining, in the light of representations, whether changes are needed in the statutory responsibilities on homelessness. Meanwhile, I welcome this opportunity of emphasising that the long-established duties and powers of local authorities remain. Like my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services, I am anxious that authorities should exercise them to the full.