§ 24. Wing Commander Bullusasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what has been the general response of the authorities concerned to his White Paper on Local Government Reorganisation ; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Duncan Sandys)Very few councils have as yet expressed opinions on the proposals in the White Paper. However, I expect to receive their views in due course through the local authority associations.
§ 26. Mr. Wadeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will make a statement on the reorganisation of local government finance with particular reference to the rate burden falling upon occupiers of shops and offices and other premises to which industrial derating does not apply.
§ Mr. SandysYes, Sir ; as soon as possible.
§ Mr. WadeMay I understand from the Minister whether, pending a decision on the wider, complicated subject of local government reorganisation, any remedy will be introduced to alleviate the hardship of shopkeepers and others who are adversely affected by the present assessments and do not benefit from derating?
§ Mr. SandysThat would, of course, involve legislation.