HC Deb 27 November 1968 vol 774 cc121-2W
77. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had from local authorities, particularly small burghs, regarding the requisition made by the regional water authorities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ross

Of the 232 rating authorities, 12 town councils have made representations to me about increases in their water rates. The increases and reductions which resulted directly from amalgamation are being spread over a period of years, but the expenditure in 1968–69 for which some of the boards have had to budget is substantially higher than in the previous year.

86. Mr. Wolrige-Gordon

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his estimate of the average increase in the water rate for small burghs in North-East Scotland this year.

Mr. Ross

Domestic water rates for 1968–69 so far announced by small burghs in the North-East of Scotland Water Board's region show decreases up to 8d. in the pound and increases up to Is. ld. compared with 1967–68.

Mr. Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, what is the total additional cost and the increase in the water rate found by Edinburgh as a result of amalgamation of water authorities in South-East Scotland since the Water (Scotland) Act came into force.

Mr. Ross

Edinburgh Corporation's estimated expenditure on water supply in the current financial year has increased by about £179,000 and their domestic water rate by 4d. in the pound, compared with 1967–68, but these increases cannot be attributed entirely to regionalisation.