§ Ms LynneTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans his Department has to review the current rules on the payment of mortgage interest to income support claimants in cases where it is aware that the home was obtained through illegal means; and if he will make a statement. [31893]
§ Mr. Roger Evans[holding answer 12 June 1996]: The issue of alleged illegality is a matter for the mortgage lenders to take such action as they deem to be appropriate in the circumstances. It is not a matter for this Department. If the mortgage lender obtains, having proved fraud in court, an order for possession or foreclosure, income support mortgage interest payments cease to be payable.
§ Ms LynneTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what is the estimated number of families on income support receiving mortgage interest payments in respect of properties which his Department is aware were obtained through illegal means. [31892]