§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) how many applications for supplementary benefits for the payments of rents have been refused in the latest year for which figures are available;
(2) how many applicants for supplementary benefits have received money for the payment of rent in the latest year for which figures are available;
(3) how many people, applying for supplementary benefits for the payment of rent, have been offered alternative 278W accommodation by his Department in the latest year for which figures are available
(4) what is the practice of his Department in dealing with applications for supplementary benefits for the purposes of paying rents.
§ Mr. OrmeIn calculating a tenant's entitlement to benefit the Supplementary Benefit Commission must include the net rent payable or such lesser amount as it considers reasonable. Regard is had to whether the rent is reasonable for the accommodation and to the claimant's circumstances, including the length of time he is likely to need benefit. The accommodation might not be regarded as reasonable for the claimant if it were too large or luxurious or in an unduly expensive neighbourhood. In November 1974 some 12,000 out of 2.3 million rent payers receiving supplementary benefit did not have their rent met in full. They and others whose rent was being met temporarily would have been advised to seek cheaper accommodation.
§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many cases have come to his notice of individuals receiving supplementary benefit in excess of £30 per week for the payment of rent.
§ Mr. OrmePayment of £30 is very rare and is usually made only for a temporary period. In November 1974 less than 0.5 per cent. of householders receiving supplementary benefit had £10 or more included for rent in the calculation of their weekly benefit.
§ Mr. Churchillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many individuals, living in accommodation where the rent is in excess of £30 per week, are currently having the greater part of their rent paid by the taxpayer.
§ Mr. OrmeInformation in the form requested is not available but I would refer the hon. Member to my reply today to the hon. Member for Louth (Mr. Brotherton).