To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what were the total payments made to residents of supportive housing accommodation project homes in Staffordshire in each financial year since 1988–89.

I understand from Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency, that the information is not available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how supportive housing accommodation project homes in Staffordshire qualified as special social services hostels in order to attract DSS payments for the residents.

The administration of income support is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member and copies will be placed in the Library and the Public Information Office.