§ 4. Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will now make a statement on the reform of the rating system.
§ Mr. CrossmanI hope to present to the House the first instalment of the Government's proposals early in the new session.
§ 10. Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what discussions he has had with local authorities about their rating situation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CrossmanI do not know quite what the hon. Member has in mind. A number of local authorities have represented to me the need for further Exchequer assistance. In addition, I am in the course of consulting the local authority associations about possible changes in the rating system.