Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will take steps to ensure that people who are not currently eligible under homelessness legislation because of immigration status are accommodated; and if he will make a statement.

The rules as to eligibility relating to immigration status have not changed. Local authorities must use their judgement in assessing what support they may lawfully give to each person on an individual basis, considering that person’s specific circumstances and support needs.

We are ensuring local authorities are supported, with £3.2 million in targeted funding to help individuals who are sleeping rough off the streets. This is in addition to the £3.2 billion provided to local authorities as part of the wider government response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Government recognises that these are unprecedented times, and expects local authorities to support people who are sleeping rough, and also to minimise unnecessary risks to public health, acting within the law.