Counter-Fraud Group

The Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) has been asked by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to consider proposals for the above named regulations. The main change that these proposals would introduce is for the regulations to provide for levels of Housing Benefit (HB) to be capped at a maximum level of the five bedroom Local Housing Allowance (LHA) from April 2009. These changes would affect:

• customers who make a new claim for HB or move address in the private rented sector from 6 April 2009; and

• existing customers in receipt of HB assessed according to LHA rates for more than five bedrooms. These customers will continue to receive the same amount until their cases are reviewed (usually at the anniversary point of their claim). HB will then be assessed according the five bedroom LHA rate, although transitional protection will apply for up to 13 weeks at the higher rate of benefit.

Before the Committee considers and reports on these proposals, it would like to hear from organisations and individuals who have views, in particular on the following aspects of the proposed changes:

• HB costs to be capped at the rate for 5 bedroom accomodation;
• Equality issues, including the impact of the proposed changes on customers with disablities and ethnic minority groups;
• The proposed provision of 13 weeks transitional protection.

Those wishing to make representations to the Committee may obtain a copy of the Department’s explanatory memorandum and a copy of the draft regulations from the Secretary to the Committee, Gill Saunders (0207 412 1506) or from the SSAC website: www.ssac.org.uk.

Representations should be sent to the Committee at New Court, 48 Carey Street, London, WC2A 2LS, or by email to sssc@dwp.gsi.gov.uk, or via the consultation response facility on the website, to arrive no later than 6 February 2009

Note for Editors:

The SSAC is the main UK advisory body for all social security matters except those relating to industrial injuries, war pensions, occupational pensions, and National Insurance contributions. Most proposals for social security regulations have to be submitted to the SSAC before they are made. When the Committee reports on regulations, the report is laid before Parliament with the regulations and a statement from the Secretary of State responding to any recommendations the Committee has made.

Address: New Court, 48 Carey Street, London WC2A 2LS
Tel: 020 7412 1510
Fax: 020 7412 1570
Email: ssac @dwp.gsi.gov.uk
Website: http://www.ssac.org.uk