15. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what percentage increase has taken place in the total amount raised in local rates by Scottish local authorities in the current financial year compared with 1966–67; and what increase took place in each of the previous three years.
§ The Minister of State, Scottish Office (Dr. J. Dickson Mabon)I cannot yet 1711 give a precise figure for the current year, but on my present information the increase is likely to be of the order of 2.5 per cent. The latest adjusted figures for earlier years show increases of 7.5 per cent. in 1964–65, 9 per cent. in 1965–66 and provisionally 17 per cent. in 1966–67.
Mr. TaylorI hope that the Minister's optimistic forecast will prove correct, but is he aware that many old-established businesses in the major cities are being forced to close down because of their experience of the exorbitant high rate burden? Has he any plans to alleviate the problems facing commerce and industry in our cities?
§ Dr. MabonMy estimate is not a prophecy; it is an estimate based on returns from authorities with 85 per cent. of the aggregate Scottish rateable value. This estimate is based on the application of the first year of the new Act—a singularly successful year in terms of the general rate increase that we have experienced over the last 20 years regularly under both parties. With reference to the supplementary question which applies only to Glasgow, this is a matter which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is actively considering in the light of representations that he has received.
§ Mr. ManuelIs my hon. Friend aware that industry in Scotland is being helped by the Government and domestic ratepayers, to the tune of 50 per cent.—industry having been derated to that extent?