Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions pursuant to the contribution of the Secretary of State of 28 June 2010, Official Report, column 608, what steps he plans to take to ensure that elderly people occupy homes of the size they need.
Answer
Housing benefit for those customers living in the private sector is already set within the local housing allowance by the area and size of accommodation needed by the household. Anyone living in accommodation that is too large will receive benefit only to the level appropriate for the size of their household.Within the social rented sector we have announced that we will restrict housing benefit for working age tenants who live in a property that is too large for their needs. It is too early to say how this change, which will come into effect in 2013, might be designed, but my Department will be working with the Department for Communities and Local Government and the devolved Administrations to identify a range of options. We will consult as we develop the proposals and during the legislative process.