§ Mr. Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if, in view of the increase in the price of petrol and other fuels, he will increase the rate support grant to Scottish local authorities in order to prevent any additional burden falling on rates.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellThe effect of price increases on the reckonable expenditure of local authorities is kept under constant review. If it appears to me that the effect in the current financial year is substantial I shall consider using my powers under Section 4 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1966.