HC Deb 11 July 1985 vol 82 cc520-1W
Mr. Ron Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he has taken in respect of Edinburgh's budget; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ancram

On 22 May Edinburgh district council was notified that my right hon. Friend considered its planned expenditure for 1985–86 to be excessive and unreasonable and that he accordingly proposed to reduce the council's rate by 5.2p. The council submitted its representations on this proposal on 12 June and my right hon. Friend and I met representatives of the council to discuss these representations on 17 June. On 3 July my right hon. Friend laid before Parliament a report seeking approval to a reduction of 5.2p in the council's rate. On housing, following the report of the local inquiry on 20 May, my right hon. Friend made an order requiring the district council to revise its estimated rate contribution to its housing revenue account and to reduce the district rate by an additional 1.8p; the district council has refused to comply and the Lord Advocate has now applied to the Court of Session for an order of specific performance.

Mr. Ron Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has any plans to appoint a commissioner to run Edinburgh city council.

Mr. Ancram

My right hon. Friend has no power to do so.

Mr. Ron Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will meet a deputation of hon. Members from Edinburgh to discuss Edinburgh's budget.

Mr. Ancram

There will be a full debate in Parliament next week on my right hon. Friend's proposals to reduce the rate of Edinburgh district council, and hon. Members will have ample opportunity to make known their views. In these circumstances it does not seem necessary for my right hon. Friend to meet hon. Members at this stage.