§ Mr. HoltTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his estimate of the employment consequences of the 30p increase in rates in Cleveland.
§ Mr. ChopeThe 30p in the pound charge in rates in Cleveland is a 12 per cent. precept increase. If the council had decided to budget in line with the Government spending assumptions the precept need have increased by only 1.4 per cent. Whilst it is not possible to make any specific estimate, it can only harm employment opportunities in businesses in the area.