asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has had from the National Association of Probation Officers about his Department's proposals to alter board and lodging regulations; and if he will make a statement.

The National Association of Probation Officers was one of the bodies which made representations to the Social Security Advisory Committee on our proposals for supplementary benefit board and lodging payments. In finalising the regulations now laid in draft before the House, we took account of the views of the Social Security Advisory Committee and the representations received.