HC Deb 21 July 1976 vol 915 c516W
Mr. Churchill

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what criteria he applies to the payment of rent in excess of £30 a week to individual families as a benefit for unlimited periods.

Mr. Deakins

The responsibility for determining the amount to be included for rent in the assessment of entitlement to supplementary benefit rests with the Supplementary Benefits Commission. If the accommodation is not too large or luxurious and is not in an unduly expensive neighbourhood, and the rent is not excessive for the accommodation, the rent is accepted as reasonable. Rent additions of over £30 are very rare indeed.