§ Mr. G. Johnson Smithasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether, in view of the 14 per cent. rise in average rate poundages in England and Wales for the year 1965–66, he will take steps to ensure that the Government share of the cost of local government services should be increased, as an emergency measure, pending the outcome of the Government's review of the rating system.
§ Mr. CrossmanI am determined to tackle the problems of rates and of Exchequer grants; but I do not think it would be sensible to start making changes until we are clear what needs to be done in the long run.