62. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health what is the average rate in the £ for all local purposes levied in England and Wales in urban and in rural areas?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIt is estimated that the average rate in the £ for all local purposes levied in urban areas in England and Wales during the past 2350 financial year (1922–23) was 14s. 6d. The corresponding rate in rural areas is estimated to have been approximately 12s. 4d.
Mr. THOMSONIn so far as the average rate in rural areas is much less than in urban areas, what does he propose to do to compensate the urban areas for the grant the Government is making to industries in agricultural areas?