HC Deb 24 March 1953 vol 513 cc626-8
17. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister for Housing and Local Government if he will circularise all local authorities urging the need for economy especially in car allowances, subsistence allowances for meals and hotels, details of which have been sent to him.

Mr. H. Macmillan

No, Sir. I think that local authorities in general are fully convinced of the need for economy.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the alarming increase in rates all over the country, will my right hon. Friend do what he can to reduce the precepts of larger authorities on the smaller authorities? Is he aware that the rate in the Orpington area is 21s. 8d., of which 18s. 3d. is precepted? Would he allow more freedom to local authorities to run their affairs in their own way?

Mr. Macmillan

I am anxious to allow local authorities the greatest latitude in the conduct of their affairs.

23. Sir T. Moore

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware of the financial hardship caused to many members of local authorities through inadequate travelling and subsistence allowances; and whether, in order to encourage such voluntary service, he will now consider increases where the need is established.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I have this matter under consideration.

Sir T. Moore

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the difficulty of retired people with intelligence and the time but not the income to give this voluntary service without proper expenses being paid? It seems to me that this is a most serious matter for our local authorities.

Mrs. Braddock

When the Minister is looking at this matter will he contrast the amount of subsistence allowance payable to officials in receipt of high salaries when they are away on local government business and the amount paid to members of councils who have no other' income? Is not he aware that very often a local authority is unable to be represented at important conferences because of the very low amount paid to members of councils when they are visiting conferences on behalf of local authorities?

Mr. Macmillan

I shall take all these matters into account.

Mr. H. Morrison

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to introduce the principle of tax-free incomes in this respect, in view of the trouble the Government are now in?

Mr. Macmillan

The right hon. Gentleman must have his fun and justify his position now his rival is back.