asked Her Majesty's Government:

What consideration they have given to the recommendations by Church Action on Poverty concerning the destitution, homelessness and vulnerability of many asylum seekers.[HL6016]

I refer the noble Lord to my Answer of 14 June 2006 (Official Report, col. WA 25). The National Asylum Support Service (NASS) makes available support and accommodation for asylum seekers, who would otherwise be destitute, from the time they claim asylum in the UK to the determination of their claim. Asylum seekers whose claims are unsuccessful are required to leave the UK. NASS support cannot and should not be continued indefinitely for those who have no legal basis to remain in the UK. Under Section 4 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, support and accommodation continues to be available for failed asylum seekers who are destitute and unable to leave the UK immediately due to circumstances entirely beyond their control. If there are problems in accessing support for such individuals, their cases should be notified to NASS for resolution.