http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld201314/ldhansrd/text/140129-0002.htm#14012963000540

 

The amendment, aimed at protecting children, was defeated. However, Lord Freud commented

 

"I am aware that some local authorities, following the introduction of the policy, have understandably taken a very cautious approach to awarding discretionary housing payments, as they assess the level of need in their area. I have instructed my officials to amend the guidance to local authorities to encourage them to make longer-term awards where the circumstances are unlikely to change. The revised guidance is being prepared and will be shared with the local authority associations in draft before being issued for the start of the financial year".