§ Mr. Geraint Howellsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if his plans with regard to the rate support grant for Wales have in any way altered since a circular on the subject was sent to local authorities in Wales in December 1975;
(2) if he will give an undertaking that the rate support grant for Wales next year will be increased in monetary terms in order that its value will remain the same in real terms;
(3) if he will give an undertaking that the rate support grant for Wales will not be decreased next year in monetary terms.
§ Mr. ShoreThe circular to which the hon. Member refers concerned the 1976–77 rate support grant settlement. I intend to announce the Government's proposals on the rate support grant settlement for 1977–78 on 22nd November. These proposals will be debated in the House as soon as possible after this announcement.