§ Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in view of the increase of violent crime in rural areas, he will avoid any redeployment to the inner cities of rate support grant for the police service that results in a reduction of crime prevention in the rural counties.
§ Mr. Guy BarnettRate support grant is a block grant for all services within the relevant expenditure of local authorities. When deciding on its distribution, I take into account a wide range of needs factors which are applicable to both urban and rural areas. Specific police grant covering 50 per cent. of expenditure on police services is paid on expenditure properly incurred and is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.