§ 45. Mr. Soleyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from the London chamber of commerce on the impact of local authority rates on business decisions.
§ Mr. WaldegraveMy right hon. Friend has met representatives of the London chamber of commerce and industry on two occasions recently. He has also received written representations from them. In its response to our214W White Paper on rates the London chamber pointed out that it is particularly difficult for businesses in a recession to meet increased rate bills, which as a result affect their ability to invest and employ. I have also seen the results of a survey of chamber members which provided evidence about the effect of rates on employment and on locational decisions in Greater London. Their concern about the high rates levied by some local authorities has led the London chamber to support our proposals for selective rate limitation.