Written question asked by James Clappison (Conservative) on Monday, 10 May 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 May 1999. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Wednesday, 19 May 1999 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what is his current estimate of the cost of providing (a) accommodation, (b) support for essential living needs and (c) expenses incurred in connection with (i) a claim for asylum and (ii) an appeal made in relation to it for each asylum seeker receiving support under his proposed asylum support system.

Answer: Mr. Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his current estimate of the cost of providing (a) accommodation, (b) support for essential living needs and (c) expenses incurred in connection with (i) a claim for asylum and (ii) an appeal made in relation to it for each asylum seeker receiving support under his proposed asylum support system. [83956] Mr. Mike O'Brien: We are not yet in a position to estimate the cost of providing accommodation. We shall shortly be setting up arrangements for the supply of accommodation by local authorities, housing associations and the private sector. The accommodation will be furnished and will be supplied with essential equipment and utensils. Council tax and utility charges will be paid separately. The proposed levels of support for other essential living needs and expenses incurred in connection with a claim for asylum or appeal were set out in the Information Document published on 22 March.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 83956; 331 c368-9W
Session: 1998-99
Subjects: Appeals Asylum Applications Housing Finance Social security benefits Refugees