§ Commander Galbraithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in the circumstances as at present known to him, he will order an investigation into the causes of the high level of rates in the city of Glasgow.
Mr. JohnstonI am at present receiving reports of the local rates being fixed for the year 1944/45 by local authorities in Scotland. These show considerable increases in many cases. When complete particulars of the rates fixed have been received I shall certainly consider them in order to see whether any special investigation is necessary in any area. Meanwhile, as I have already informed the hon. Member, if any evidence is submitted on particular aspects of local authority expenditure which are held to require special investigation I will consider it in consultation with the local authority concerned.