HC Deb 24 July 1973 vol 860 c364W
Mr. Marks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will propose that the negotiations for the rate support grant 1974–75 be held in public.

Mr. Graham Page

No. My right hon. and learned Friend's consultations with local government representatives before he makes a rate support grant order are provided for in the Local Government Act 1966; but it is fitting that they should be treated as confidential until he has reported to Parliament under the Act.