HC Deb 25 October 1984 vol 65 cc729-30W
Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he is taking to preserve the real value of housing benefits; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Whitney

Housing benefit is being uprated in line with the usual arrangements next month. The needs allowances will go up 4.8 per cent., reflecting the increase in the long-term supplementary benefit householder scale rate and movements in certain housing costs.