asked the Minister of Health (1) how many husbands he estimates to be separated from their wives and children living in accommodation for the homeless;(2) if he will state the number of homeless families being accommodated by local authorities in total and for each of the major local authorities in reception centres and in short-stay accommodation, respectively.

The total number of persons resident on 31st December, 1965 in temporary accommodation provided by local welfare authorities under the National Assistance Act in England and Wales was 12,411: detailed figures for each county, county borough and London borough other than those returning no persons in temporary accommodation at that date are set out below. I regret that the other information is not available, but I would draw my hon. Friend's attention to the circular I sent to local authorities this week in which I ask them to plan to provide accommodation in which husbands can be with their families and to report on their arrangements by 31st March next.