§ Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the average percentage increase in general rate poundage amongst all the district councils in the following counties, namely, Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Somerset and Wiltshire.
§ Mr. Guy BarnettThe averages taken from returns so far received are as below. Two rating authorities have still to make a return of rates to the Department.
Percentage Increase in Average General Rate Poundage 1977–78 of 1976–77 Country Cornwall 9.3 Devon 11.4 Dorset 9.8 Hampshire 14.0 Isle of Wight 15.1 Somerset 11.7 Wiltshire 16.2 Total 12.6