HC Deb 26 March 1968 vol 761 cc1152-3
24. Mr. Ogden

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what advice he has given to the City Council of Liverpool regarding a fair rents and rates policy at this time; and what reply has he received.

Mr. Greenwood

I have not offered the Council any advice on these subjects, other than that contained in circulars addressed to all local authorities. I understand that through the working of the rate support grant introduced by this Government, domestic rates for next year will remain unchanged.

Mr. Ogden

Was not the circular of my right hon. Friend addressed to the City of Liverpool, and has it not ignored the advice in that circular? Is it not to increase council house rents from 1st April? Would he write to the authority, saying that he proposes to introduce legislation which will be back-dated from the date of the increase?

Mr. Greenwood

It would be wrong for me to try to threaten local authorities with powers which I do not yet possess. My hon. Friend will be glad to know that the Corporation of the City of Liverpool asked to see me and I shall be meeting it on Thursday.

Mr. Fortescue

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that, in attempting to balance its housing revenue account and in introducing its present rate rebate scheme, the Corporation of the City of Liverpool is acting exactly in accordance with the advice of his Ministry?

Mr. Greenwood

In fairness to myself, I should say that I have not given any corporation advice that it should completely abolish its rate fund contribution. I would rather not prejudge the discussions which I am to have with the Liverpool Corporation on Thursday.