§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she has received a copy of the report, Single Homeless on Merseyside: A Night Survey January 1975; and if she will make a statement on her policy towards its recommendations.
§ Mr. MeacherWe have received a copy of the report and noted that most of the recommendations are addressed to statutory bodies on Merseyside. As to the recommendations for action nationally, the Department will of course continue, within the limits of present financial constraints, to co-operate with local authorities and voluntary organisations who seek to put into effect the policies described in the Department's circulars about homeless rootless people, including alcoholics.
Earlier this year the Department authorised a substantial grant to the Merseyside, Lancashire and Cheshire Council on Alcoholism towards purchasing a hostel for recovering alcoholics. Urban aid was also granted.