§ 43. Mr. BATEYasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress is being made with the consideration of the question of local rates; and when a Report on the question may be expected?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Arthur Michael Samuel)My right hon. Friend has very little doubt that some statement, either negative or positive, upon this subject will be elicited during the Debates on the Budget.
§ Mr. BATEYAre we to understand that we are to have no statement as to what the Government are doing before the House rises for Easter?
§ Mr. SAMUELI think that is so.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAre we to understand that the only thing the Government are going to do in the matter of local rates is to give a fresh subsidy for the taxpayer to local rates?
§ Mr. SAMUELWhat the right hon. and gallant Member is to understand is the answer I have given in reply to the question.
§ Mr. SAMUELI cannot say off-hand.