HC Deb 14 May 1914 vol 62 cc1284-5
83. Mr. SANDERS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer in what respect the local authorities of the county of Somerset have failed in their duty; and why the contribution to their rates under the Budget should be less than half that to be received by Wiltshire?

Mr. HERBERT LEWIS

My right hon. Friend the President of the Local Government Board cannot accept the assumption upon which the hon. Member's question is based. The introduction of the new system will necessarily alter the proportions in which particular areas benefit. This is largely due to the fact that the present system is unequal.

Mr. SANDERS

Will the right hon. Gentleman take care that his proposals do not penalise economy, and put a premium on extravagance?

Mr. LEWIS

Yes, we shall do that.