HC Deb 26 May 1938 vol 336 cc1394-5
72. Mr. Hopkin

asked the Minister of Health what were the total rates levied in the city of Cardiff in the years 1914 and 1937, respectively, and the debt charges for each of those years?

Mr. Elliot

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Hopkin

Is it possible for the Minister to say how much the debt charges were in 1937, and whether it is proposed to ask Lord Bute to pay these charges?

Mr. Elliot

In 1937 they were £714,218, and that figure includes £507,948 in respect of trading undertakings and housing which are to a large extent productive services.

Mr. James Griffiths

In view of what has recently happened in Cardiff, where a portion of land which years ago was a swamp has now been sold for untold millions, will the right hon. Gentleman consider this method of raising funds for local purposes?

Following is the answer:

In the City of Cardiff the total rates in the £ levied in the years ended 31st March, 1914, and 31st March, 1937, were 7s. 10d. and 12S. 1d. respectively, and the debt charges payable by the city council were for the former year £286,888 and for the latter year £714,218. The first mentioned figure included £137,023 and the last mentioned figure £507,948 in respect of trading undertakings and housing which are to a large extent productive services.