§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations have been received from organisations that provide hostel accommodation about the financial difficulties they are experiencing as a result of the changes in income support introduced in April 1989; and if he will list the nature and extent of the problems that are being experienced.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardChanges to income support for hostel dwellers were introduced from 9 October 1989. Since that date we have received a small number of representations about financial difficulties resulting from the change. Most problems appear to have been caused by initial difficulties with the administration of housing benefit. Latest indications are that those problems have now been largely resolved satisfactorily.