HC Deb 15 July 1986 vol 101 c503W
Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people in Northern Ireland currently receive board and lodging allowance under supplementary benefit regulations; and what are the figures for the past five years.

Mr. Needham

The information is as follows:

Numbers
December 1981 777
December 1982 1,033
December 1983 1,070
December 1984 1,481
April 1985 1,129
May 1986 2,122

Notes

1. The numbers for 1981–1984 were derived from the Annual Statistical Enquiry and are subject to sampling error; those for April 1985 and May 1986 represent actual counts.

2. The numbers include all categories of boarder claimants.

Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the average cost per week to the Exchequer of board and lodging allowance for bed and breakfast for a single person in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Needham

The estimated average cost is £35.33 per week.