§ Major TASKERasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the general rate to be levied in many of the London boroughs is at a higher rate in the than the rate for the past half-year, although the new rate will be levied on a greatly increased assessment; and whether the Government will take steps to limit the spending powers of local authorities to the amounts raised in 1925 while Imperial taxation is so burdensome?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINAccording to the latest information furnished to my Department, the rate in the pound of the general rate for the present 1403W half-year will be less than the rate in the pound for the past half-year in 15 Metropolitan boroughs, will be the same in two boroughs and will be greater in 12 boroughs. As regards the last part of the question, I have every sympathy with the object of my hon. Friend, but I am afraid that legislation for this purpose would not be practicable.