§ 10. Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many district and borough councils have reduced their rate poundage over the past three years; and what has been the average increase over this period.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Giles Shaw)Between 1980–81 and 1982–83 there 889 were reductions in the reported average local rate poundages of 30 districts and boroughs. General rate poundage in England rose by an average of 37 per cent. over the period.
§ Mr. TaylorSome councils, such as Southend-on-Sea, have a remarkable record in reducing their borough rate. Does my hon. Friend agree that some horrific increases in other areas are destroying jobs and causing a great deal of hardship? As Southend has shown that rates can be reduced, would not my hon. Friend be justified—in anticipation of rating reform—in putting a maximum increase on all rate poundages?
§ Mr. ShawThere has been a substantial increase in precepts and rates, which have offset in almost every case the reductions that districts and boroughs have made. Of the 30 boroughs that have achieved such reductions, 23 were under Conservative control. However, the precept increases more than offset the reductions. My hon. Friend will recognise that supplementary rates have already been made illegal by an Act of Parliament last year.
§ Mr. ProctorIs my hon. Friend aware that the Conservative-controlled Essex county council has forecast a rate increase this year of 5 per cent., whereas the Labour-controlled Basildon district council has forecast a rate increase of 40 per cent.? Will my hon. Friend give firm advice to Basildon district council that it should reduce its spending to save jobs in Basildon?
§ Mr. ShawThere can be no more eloquent testimony than my hon. Friend's remarks to the policy that my right hon. Friend has sought to pursue in making this year's rate settlement.