Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to recommendation two of the letter of 1 June 2020 from the Social Security Advisory Committee, if she will make it her policy to suspend the Shared Accommodation Rate for under 35 year olds.

There are no plans to suspend the shared accommodation rate for those under 35 years old.

There are already a number of exemptions from the shared accommodation rate for the most vulnerable, such as those in receipt of the Severe Disability Premium, care leavers up to the age of 22 and those aged 25-34 who have spent 3 months in homeless hostels.

For other individuals who may require more support and whose circumstances may make it difficult for them to share accommodation, Discretionary Housing Payments are available from local authorities.