§ Lord Donaldson of Kingsbridgeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether prisoners were eligible for rebates on rates levied on their unoccupied homes.
§ Lord HenleyLocal authorities had powers to pay rate rebates for up to 52 weeks to claimants who were absent from their normal home, provided the claimant intended to return to the home, the total absence would not substantially exceed 52 weeks, and the home was not sublet in the interim. These rules applied equally to absence in prison or for any other reason. Local authorities continue to have powers to pay rent rebates and allowances in the same circumstances.