asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what is the percentage of those elegible for rate rebate in Northern Ireland in receipt of this benefit;(2) how many persons in Northern Ireland are receiving rate rebates; and how many live in public and private sector houses, respectively.

Information for the year ended 31 March 1979 is as follows:

Northern Ireland Housing Executive tenants	16,100
Private sector	19,100
Total	35,200

Figures for the current year are not yet available.The percentage uptake cannot be estimated, because eligibility depends on individual circumstances which can only be known when an application is made.

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in what circumstances a person in receipt of supplementary benefit may claim a rate rebate; and what is the subsequent effect on the amounts of supplementary benefit, if any, should a rate rebate be granted.

Supplementary benefit recipients are excluded from the rate rebate scheme as supplementary benefit includes provision for the payment of rent and rates. In cases where a rebate has already been granted this is taken fully into account in determining the amount of supplementary benefit.