69. Mr. Edward Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that certain Scottish local authorities have made decisions not to implement the provisions of the Housing Bill in the event of its becoming law; if he will estimate the financial loss which will be experienced by these authorities; and if he will introduce legislation to free ratepayers from the obligation to pay rate demands which are increased in consequence of such action.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellAny such expression of intent at this stage is speculative and I am confident that in the event local authorities will not wish to deprive tenants and ratepayers of the substantial benefits which the Bill will give them. For example, the City Chamberlain of Glasgow has estimated that under the Bill the city's housing subsidies will be about £4 million higher in 1972–73 than in 1971–72.