Dr Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, if he will take steps to assess the practicability of using empty NHS and Social Services buildings, including Nightingale hospitals, to assist in the short-term transition of Ukrainian refugee families between arrival in the UK and placement with the sponsors who are offering to accommodate them; and if he will make a statement.  [143541]

[Due for Answer on 24 March] 

ANSWER

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing and Rough Sleeping (Eddie Hughes):  The Government is exploring using vacant public sector property for Ukrainians arriving into the UK. Those arriving under the Homes for Ukraine scheme should however proceed directly to the housing provided by their sponsor.