Written question asked by Harry Barnes (Labour) on Wednesday, 3 December 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 December 2003. It was answered by Ivor Caplin (Labour) on Monday, 15 December 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Northern Ireland veterans he estimates are homeless. - Inc fact that the number is not known at present.

Answer: Mr. Barnes: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Northern Ireland veterans he estimates are homeless. [142743] Mr. Caplin: The number of homeless veterans who have served in Northern Ireland is not known at present. In January 2004, the Ministry of Defence and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister are planning to begin a study into the extent, causes, impact and costs of homelessness and rough sleeping among ex-Service personnel in England. As part of this study, homeless veterans will be asked about their Service background and operational experience which will include Service in Northern Ireland.

Secondary information