§ The Prime Minister (Mrs. Margaret Thatcher)I have at present no plans to do so.
§ Mr. MadelThe new employment and training measures will help industry in Bedfordshire, but is my right hon. Friend aware that if the Labour and Liberal parties on the county council succeed in imposing a supplementary rate this autumn domestic and industrial ratepayers will be hurt and employment prospects in Bedfordshire will be severely hampered?
§ The Prime MinisterI agree with my hon. Friend. However much councils may wish to in local authorities, they should not impose rates that are too high for their industry and commerce to bear. It is industry and commerce that provide the jobs. Higher rates can mean more unemployment. I hope that my hon. Friend's council will take that into account when considering what to do.