§ Mr. Patrick Jenkinasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what estimate he has made of the cost to public funds arising from homelessness consequent upon the refusal of the Supplementary Benefits Commission to meet mortgage payments after a marital break-up.
§ Mr. Patrick Jenkinasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proposals he has to ensure better protection for separated wives living in premises mortgaged by husbands.
§ Mr. EnnalsThe Supplementary Benefits Commission recognises the difficulties of wives left in a mortgaged matrimonial home and there are standing instructions to staff which should prevent any women suffering hardship in these circumstances.
A recent report published by the Child Poverty Action Group refers to a few cases where women appear to have been wrongly advised, but the Commission has no evidence of homelessness having been caused by any such oversight.