HC Deb 15 December 1977 vol 941 cc371-2W
Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the effect of the latest rate support grant settlement on Calderdale District Council; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Guy Barnett

Final calculations of entitlements to the needs element of RSG for 1978–79 have not yet been made; but on the basis of estimates prepared for the recent meeting of the Consultative Council on Local Government Finance, Calderdale's needs grant for 1978–79 will be about 5.4 per cent. higher in cash terms than it was in 1977–78. In common with all other qualifying authorities, Calderdale will receive a slightly higher proportion of its rate-borne expenditure by way of the resources element in 1978–79 than in 1977–78.

Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if in future he will include hon. Members in the rate support grant negotiations, instead of presenting them with the conclusions after the negotiations are over; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Shore

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to my hon. Friend on 22nd November.—[Vol. 939, c.636–7.]