§ 74. Mr. Hubbardasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that since the passing of the Local Government (Scotland) Act, 1929, the Fife small burghs have been requisitioned by the county council to pay large sums, for which they have not received adequate services in return; and if he will consider introducing amending legislation.
§ Mr. T. JohnstonI have received representations regarding rate increases in several local government areas, and I am at present obtaining particulars of the rates being fixed for the year 1944–45 by local authorities throughout all Scotland. When the returns for which I have asked are complete, I shall consider the position and consult with the associations of local authorities.
§ Mr. SloanIs the Minister not aware that this is merely a spurious agitation on the part of small burghs, and that they are getting full value for all the services for which they are paying?
§ Mr. JohnstonIt is not only the small burghs that are making representations, or whose rates are increasing. All I say here is that we are asking tor particulars.
Major LloydIs the Minister aware that the small burghs are very deeply concerned in this matter, and will welcome a 1264 very full investigation into the whole position by my right hon. Friend himself?