§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what new initiatives he is taking to tackle the problem of homelessness in(a) South Yorkshire and (b) Doncaster;
(2) what new and additional finance is being made available to help (a) local authorities and (b) voluntary organisations to tackle the problem of homelessness in (i) South Yorkshire generally and (ii) Doncaster.
§ Mr. YeoHousing investment programme allocations to South Yorkshire authorities for 1991–92 total £56.574 million, of which Doncaster's share is £7.950 million. When these allocations were determined, the levels of homelessness experienced were taken into account, both through generalised needs index indicators and in the distribution of resources not allocated through the GNI. In addition, Doncaster MBC's proposal to provide an additional hostel for the homeless was taken specifically into account. Our two main national homelessness470W initiatives, involving expenditure of £396 million, are targeted on the areas of greatest need in London and the south-east. In the longer term, we will consider extension to other areas.
Sheffield and Barnsley's urban programme submissions, which include schemes directed at the homeless, are under consideration now. Neither Doncaster nor Rotherham have included such schemes in their urban programme submissions.
Applications from voluntary organisations assisting the homeless for funding in 1991–92 under section 73 of the Housing Act 1985 are also currently being considered.