Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what estimate her Department has made of the number of new universal credit claimants that would be unable to make mortgage interest payments if their mortgage payment holiday expires; and if she will make a statement.

No such assessment has been made.

New claimants to Universal Credit have to serve a nine month qualifying period before they are entitled to help with their mortgage interest. The lending industry is aware of and understands these arrangements. If, during this time, individuals are unable to meet their payments, we would encourage them to discuss options with their lenders.