Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of support provided under sections 4 and 95 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.

Asylum seekers are supported under section 95 if they would otherwise be destitute. Failed asylum seekers are supported under section 4 if they would otherwise be destitute and there is a temporary barrier that prevents their departure from the UK.

The assistance available to both groups consists of accommodation (with gas, electricity and water provided free) and a weekly allowance to buy food and other essential items. They are also able to access healthcare and education.

The Home Office keeps these arrangements under regular review and is satisfied they are an effective way of ensuring people are not left destitute.