§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) what response he has made to the National Housing and Town Planning Council publication, entitled "Making a Difference-Housing Benefit for Students"; and if he will make a statement;
514W(2) what recent representations he has received regarding housing benefit for students in relation to the 1993 summer break.
§ Mr. BurtI have received a number of representations from hon. Members and members of the public. I have seen the National Housing and Town Planning Council publication. In general, it is the educational maintenance system which is designed to provide support for students, not the social security system, and we have no plans to change this. Housing benefit is, however, available to vulnerable students such as lone parents, those who are disabled, and those with dependent children, not just during the summer vacation but throughout their course. In addition, non-student partners can claim on behalf of the couple if they satisfy the normal qualifying conditions.