§ Mr. Soleyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland why the Housing (Homeless Persons) Act 1977 has not so far been extended to Northern Ireland; if he will now seek to do so; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Chris PattenThe Housing (Homeless Persons) Act 1977 has not so far been extended to Northern Ireland because neither I nor my predecessors have yet been convinced that this would represent an improvement over the existing legislative provision and administrative arrangements. However, the joint working group set up in November 1983 to consider the problems of homelessness has recently submitted its report and I shall make a further statement when this report has been considered fully.