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Statutory definitions of homelessness are being inconsistently and carelessly applied, with councils appearing to be looking for reasons to refuse help, MPs warned last week.

It is "extraordinary" that councils interpret homelessness so differently, says a report by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister select committee.

"There are suspicions that 'gate-keeping' is getting tougher to keep the number of acceptances down because authorities cannot cope with demand," it says.

The report also urges clearer guidance on social services taking into care the children of intentionally homeless families and the definition of vulnerable persons in relation to homelessness.