HC Deb 26 July 1983 vol 46 c420W
Mr. Chris Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will announce the amount of the student deduction for housing benefit purposes for the academic year 1983–84; how this amount is related to the student maintenance award or student accommodation costs; and on what basis this amount is calculated.

Dr. Boyson

The new rates are as follows- amounts deducted during term-time for the purposes of calculating eligible rent and income for grant-aided students attending courses

  1. (a) in the London area - £19.45 (was £18.65)
  2. (b) elsewhere - £14.70 (was £14.10)

The new rates will apply from 1 September 1983. The deductions are calculated with reference to the amount included in the student grant for accommodation costs and are made in order to avoid a double subsidy from public funds.