§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will give details of the effects of the changes in the legislation to persons living in local authority hostels from 9 April; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardThere was no change in legislation from 9 April 1989 which affected people living in hostels. From 9 April 1990 the protected sum currently in payment to some hostel dwellers will be divided so that the local office pays that part appropriate to the claimant, and the Department's central unit takes on any compensation due to the hostel.
§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will give details of the number of homeless who are in receipt of invalidity benefit or retirement pension.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardI regret the information is not available.
§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what is the change in benefit entitlement of a person in a hostel who is in receipt of the protected sum if they temporarily leave for two days to attend a sick relative or to attend a family bereavement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardThe protected sum ceases if the claimant changes or vacates the hostel.
§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he last visited a hostel for the homeless; and what matters he discussed with the residents and staff.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardSince his appointment as the Secretary of State for Social Security, my right hon. Friend has not had the opportunity to visit a hostel.