§ Mr. Butterfillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why the ownership of capital is disregarded in considering eligibility for housing benefit; and if, in view of the fact that some individuals with substantial capital which does not generate income are claiming benefit, he will review the criteria for eligibility.
§ Dr. BoysonAlthough capital is not taken into account when assessing entitlement to housing benefit, any interest which that capital earns counts in full as income, and so reduces benefit.
We have no current plans to review this aspect of the scheme.