§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has plans to provide financial assistance to women who, following a divorce or a separation, are left in sole occupation of rented housing accommodation and are held liable for any accumulated arrears of rent; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitneyA woman who continues to occupy the family home following a divorce or separation and who is liable to pay rent and/or rates or makes payments as if liable, may be entitled to housing benefits for her rent and/ or rates. If supplementary benefit is also in payment, a deduction of £1.45 a week may, in certain circumstances, be made from that benefit and paid direct to the landlord towards any rent arrears for which she is responsible. There is no provision to make special payments for the arrears. We have no plans to change these arrangements.