HC Deb 05 July 1982 vol 27 cc12-3
15. Mr. Alec Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has had from the Welsh Consultative Council on Local Government Finance.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

The Welsh Consultative Council on Local Government Finance, which I normally chair, meets regularly throughout the year to consider all financial and related matters affecting local government. The Welsh local authority associations' representatives ensure that I am fully aware of their views on all these matters.

Mr. Jones

Are the local authorities in Wales expected, in the current financial year, to reduce their budgets by £57 million? Does this not represent about 4.8 per cent. of expenditure? How does this compare with the so-called overspend in England and Scotland? What effect is this likely to have on local authority manpower in Wales and, above all, on the services for the people in Wales?

Mr. Edwards

The budgets at present show a total planned expenditure of £57 million, or 4.8 per cent., in excess of the rate support grant provision. I have told the local authorities that we are not prepared to accept overspending on that level and I have asked them to review their budgets and to submit revised budgets by 16 July. When I have those revised budgets, I shall consider whether any further action is necessary. My decision on grant witholding, if any is required, will be taken in the light of that re-submission, although I have made it clear that I shall protect those authorities that have not contributed to the expenditure excess.