§ Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he intends to seek to amend the Housing (Homeless Persons) Act 1977 to take account of the needs of homeless teenagers.
§ Sir George YoungLocal authorities have a duty under the Act to secure accommodation for genuinely homeless people in priority need and to give advice and appropriate assistance to other homeless people. Some teenagers may fall into one of the categories of priority need listed in the Act, for example as being vulnerable. The Department's code of guidance asks authorities wherever possible to secure accommodation for homeless young people who are at risk of sexual or financial exploitation. Under section 12(1) of the Act authorities are required to have regard to the code of guidance. The operation of the Act continues to be monitored, but my right hon. Friend has no plans for any amendment at this stage.