§ 18. Mr. Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will regard burghs of population of 2,000 and under as part of the landward areas of counties for grant purposes.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonThe general grant distribution formula will be considered as part of the comprehensive examination of local government finance which is now in progress. The question whether burghs of under 2,000 population should be regarded as part of the landward area for grant purposes is being kept in mind, but we must look at the whole pattern of grants and rate levels.
§ Mr. BakerIs the Under-Secretary aware that in the county of Banff there are 11 small burghs, seven of which have a population of under 2,000, as a result of which great hardship is felt throughout the county? Is he aware that this applies not only to Banffshire but to other Scottish counties, and that we feel that these counties have a real hardship problem? Will he take urgent action to see that they receive redress and assistance?
§ Dr. MabonI agree that the formula has not been to the advantage of Banff County, but the average rate payment per household in Banff is £20 19s., which is still well below the Scottish average of £32 14s. I am afraid that my right hon. Friend could not contemplate any change in the present grant arrangements until the general review has been completed.
§ Mr. G. CampbellI realise that no formula will suit every county, but after the review will the hon. Gentleman give special consideration to the problem of Banffshire and similar counties, because they really have a special difficulty?
§ Dr. MabonIt will all be considered when the review is going on—not before or after, but in the review—because the review must be essentially a Scottish one as well as having a relationship to the whole of the United Kingdom.