§ Dr. Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will assess the benefits of introducing a universal housing benefit scheme covering both rent and mortgage payments. [73747]
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§ Angela EagleThe help provided for people on low incomes to meet their housing costs is kept under review. Housing Benefit helps people on low incomes meet their rent, whether they are in or out of work. Help with mortgage costs is provided for those on Income Support or income based Jobseeker's Allowance. Extending help with mortgage costs to those with low incomes but above the level of Income Support or income based Jobseeker's Allowance could cost up to £1 billion per year, if it was fully taken up.