Section 59 — Housing Act 1985: Priority need for accommodation.

Priority need for accommodation. 59 1 The following have a priority need for accommodation—

a a pregnant woman or a person with whom a pregnant woman resides or might reasonably be expected to reside;

b a person with whom dependent children reside or might reasonably be expected to reside;

c a person who is vulnerable as a result of old age, mental illness or handicap or physical disability or other special reason, or with whom such a person resides or might reasonably be expected to reside;

d a person who is homeless or threatened with homelessness as a result of an emergency such as flood, fire or other disaster.

2 The Secretary of State may by order made by statutory instrument—

a specify further descriptions of persons as having a priority need for accommodation, and b amend or repeal any part of subsection (1).

3 Before making such an order the Secretary of State shall consult such association representing relevant authorities, and such other persons, as he considers appropriate.

4 No order shall be made unless a draft of it has been approved by resolution of each House of Parliament.