§ Mr. Peter Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the average rate increase for district councils as opposed to county councils in 1974–75; and what percentage of the district councils increased their rates by (i) more than 40 per cent., (ii) less than 40 per cent. but more than 30 per cent., (iii) less than 30 per cent. but more than 20 per cent., (iv) less than 20 per cent. but more than 10 per cent. and (v) less than 10 per cent., respectively.
§ Mr. OakesI understand that the hon. Member is seeking a comparison between the rates levied in 1975–76 and 1974–75.
The increase in the average precept levied by county councils is not yet available; I shall write to the hon. Member when this is known. The increase in the average non-domestic rate poundage for district councils—which includes the county precept—in 1975–76 is 23 per cent. This figures excludes London.
The following table shows the percentage increases in rate poundages:
% Increase 1975–76 CF 1974–75 Number of Districts (i) Above 40 per cent. 3 (ii) Between 30 per cent. and 40 per cent. 37 (iii) Between 20 per cent. and 30 per cent. 207 (iv) Between 10 per cent. and 20 per cent. 107 (v) Less than 10 per cent. 5
§ Mr. George Cunninghamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has ruled out the possibility of a London rate equalisation scheme for 1976–77 which does not provide for all the inner boroughs to pay in and all the outer boroughs to draw out.
§ Mr. OakesNo possibilities have been ruled out, but the present proposals under discussion with the London Boroughs Association involve some equalisation payment between the inner and outer boroughs.