Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, if he will make an assessment of the adequacy of Birmingham City Council's decision to use of bed and breakfast facilities at significant distances from that city to accommodate homeless families; and if he will make a statement.

Legislation is clear that local authorities must ensure temporary accommodation is suitable in relation to the applicant and all members of their household. This requires an assessment of all aspects of the accommodation, including location.

We are clear that local authorities should, as far as possible, avoid placing households out of their borough. Placing households in temporary accommodation outside of the local area should be a last resort.

Applicants may request a review of their TA if they feel it is unsuitable. If an applicant is not satisfied with how the council has handled their case, they may complain to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman or take legal action in the courts.