§ 71. Mr. H. G. Williamsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can state approximately the aggregate of the rate-borne and grant-borne expenditure of the local authorities in Great Britain during the years 1936–37; and what increase this showed over 1926–27?
§ Sir J. SimonOnly roughly approximate figures can be given for the year 1936–37. Taking as a basis the estimate of rates collected and the Government grants as shown in the Appropriation Accounts, the aggregate of rate-borne and grant-borne expenditure of local authorities in Great Britain for the year 1936–37 was about £350,000,000, and the increase for that year over the figure for 1926–27 was about £70,000,000.
§ Mr. WilliamsIn view of this large and dangerous increase, does His Majesty's Government contemplate giving any advice to local authorities?
§ Sir J. SimonI cannot say.
§ Mr. WilliamsIs it not the case that this expenditure does not include any capital expenditure at all, and does not include a single penny expenditure on housing?