HC Deb 18 June 1936 vol 313 c1164
39. Mr. ELLIS SMITH

asked the Minister of Health how many communications he received during the present year from local authorities asking that action should be taken to assist the high-rated industrial towns?

Sir K. WOOD

Various suggestions for financial assistance to the councils of highly-rated areas have been made to me from time to time, but I have no record of communications addressed to me in the specific terms to which the hon. Member refers.

40. Mr. SMITH

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the resolution sent from the city council of Stoke-on-Trent to the effect that the existing system of rating is inequitable and should be carefully considered with the question of land values and amended to meet present-day conditions, and also the resolution of the conference on 7th April at which 60 local authorities were represented; and whether it is proposed to take any action on the lines suggested?

Sir K. WOOD

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Hartley (Mr. Hollins) on 7th May, of which I am sending him a copy.

Mr. SMITH

In view of the present unfair position of northern towns, will the Minister consider the effect of high rates upon the cost of production?

Sir K. WOOD

I stated in my previous reply that I would be prepared to consider any representations supporting the resolution which local authorities wished to make in the matter.