HC Deb 23 March 1950 vol 472 cc2153-4
35. Mr. Maudling

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to a recent speech, of which a copy has been sent to him, by the chairman of the Finance Committee of the Hertford County Council, stressing the financial burden caused to the county by the prospective influx of an additional population of 200,000; and what steps he proposes to take to assist the County Council in meeting this burden

Mr. Bevan

I have noted these observations. It is to be assumed that an influx of population will bring added rating resources. But if these do not suffice to prevent the county figure falling below the average of the whole country, and in so far as the expenditure is not met by other grants, the County Council will be entitled to an equalisation grant.

Mr. Maudling

While thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask him to bear in mind that the Hertfordshire County Council is involved in considerable expense in preparing for this influx of population in advance of the creation of any additional rateable value?

Mr. Bevan

That happens to every local authority when there is a local influx of population.