§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received regarding the changes in method of payment for housing benefit for those in board and lodging accommodation.
§ Mr. Peter LloydSince 10 April we have received a small number of letters from organisations and individuals 445W about the change in providing help with board and lodging charges which took place on that day. The change, which abolishes special rates of income support for boarders and allows people in board and lodging accommodation to receive housing benefit for their accommodation costs, was proposed in a consultation document issued in December 1986. Over 170 responses to that document were received. These expressed widespread acceptance of the principle that there should be parity both in the treatment of people in similar types of accommodation, whether or not board was provided, and between people in identical accommodation, whether or not they were working.
§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security whether his Department is monitoring the implementation of the new method of housing benefit payment for those in board and lodging accommodation.
§ Mr. Peter LloydThe Government are committed to monitoring the effects of the social security reforms on all groups. This monitoring is a continuous process which draws on a wide range of information sources, including local authorities, who administer housing benefit.