§ Mr. JackTo ask the Prime Minister if she will make a statement on the implementation of the community charge and the uniform business rate.
§ The Prime MinisterFollowing the successful introduction of these arrangements in Scotland, I understand that most local authorities in England and Wales are making excellent progress in preparing for the new community charge and uniform business rating arrangements. Registration for the charge is proceeding smoothly and on time. I have every confidence that all authorities will wish to ensure that bills, with any necessary adjustment for transitional relief and rebates, will be issued to chargepayers on time next April.