(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 any 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 associations representing relevant authorities, and such other persons, as he considers appropriate.
(4)No such order shall be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament.