Written question asked by Lord Patten (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Hanham (Conservative) on Tuesday, 15 November 2011.

Homelessness: Rough Sleepers

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what discussions they have had, or plan to have, with the Metropolitan Police Commissioner on why rough sleeping is not permitted outside the entrance to New Scotland Yard, but occurs immediately opposite on Victoria Street.

Answer: The department has not had discussions with the Metropolitan Police Commissioner. Westminster council is responsible for tackling rough sleeping in the area. We look to local authorities to work with voluntary organisations and those who are trying to help the homeless to find the best local solutions to tackle rough sleeping. We will continue to work with Westminster council and the mayor to deliver No Second Night Out in London and to roll out the principles of No Second Night Out nationally. We have already provided an additional £20 million to Homeless Link for a new Homelessness Transition Fund to help delivery. The Government are committed to tackling rough sleeping and preventing homelessness. We have maintained the level of Homelessness Grant, with £400 million for local authorities and the voluntary sector over the next four years. A cross-departmental Ministerial Working Group has been set up to address the complex causes of homelessness and improve support for homeless people. We also recently announced £42.5 million for the Homelessness Change Programme which will provide in excess of 1,500 new and improved bed spaces to improve hostels for rough sleepers and ensure that those coming off the streets get the support they need.

Secondary information