§ 33. Mr. Colemanasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received regarding the changes in housing benefit in Wales.
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§ Dr. BoysonThe Department has received comments from one Welsh local authority, a copy of which I have sent to the hon. Member. There have also been a few comments from organisations which incorporate Welsh interests, but none of these make points relating specifically to Wales. I understand that our advisory body, the Social Security Advisory Committee, which sought representations before making a report to us on the proposed changes, also received comments from one Welsh local authority and one local Welsh organisation.
§ Mr. Barry Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his estimate of the number of people in Wales currently receiving housing benefit.
§ Dr. BoysonWe estimate that there are approximately 341,000 people receiving housing benefit in Wales.