VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Local Housing Allowance: Scotland

Asked by Seamus LoganScottish National PartyDepartment for Work and PensionsTabled Answered 16 December 2025UIN 97983

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of retaining the freeze on Local Housing Allowance on older private renters in Scotland who are living in poverty.

Answered by Sir Stephen Timms

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State confirmed in his Written Statement (HCWS1101) that Local Housing Allowance rates will not be increased for 2026/27. He considered a range of factors, such as rental levels and impacts across Great Britain, including in Scotland, the wider fiscal context and UK government social security priorities.

For private renters who require additional support, Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) are available from local authorities. DHPs have been fully devolved to Scotland who are responsible for the allocation and payment to Scottish local authorities.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim