further to the news item it should be noted that 'eligible' students still cannot get HB if living in halls of residence if either-

they are a part time student on IS or JSA, or
a full time student waiting to return to their course after illness or caring responsibilities have come to an end.

Presumably the ommision of these student who would usually be eligible for HB is deliberate - although given that the number likely to be involved is tiny one must wonder why.

Sorry, I must be missing something. I am not clear why the amendment regs would exclude these persons from entitlement.

because the amendment regs refer back to 'eligible students' in HB Reg 48A and do not refer to every sub para within 48A when bringing students living in halls within HB entitlement. 48A(2)(a) and 48A(5) are not included in the x-ref.