To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will give his estimate of the number of households, by tenure, whose housing benefit is reduced because of non-dependants deductions; and if he will sub-divide this number by 16 to 17-year-old, 18 to 24-year-old, and 25 years old and over age groups.

Such information as is available is in the table.

The provision of the benefit inquiry line 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 Public Information Office.