§ 15. Mr. Hefferasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with the Leader of the Council of the City of Liverpool on the city's financial problems; if he is prepared to consider granting more financial aid to Liverpool in the light of the possible impending rate increase of up to 40 per cent. and rent increases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ShoreI visited Liverpool in September and discussed a number of matters with the council, including financial problems, and have subsequently kept in touch with the situation. The Government cannot make special arrangements to take account of what appears to be unrealistic budgeting in previous years by particular local authorities. However, under this year's rate support grant settlement the relative needs228W of Liverpool have been more fully recognised, than in any previous year; Liverpool's percentage share of needs element has increased by 12 per cent., one of the highest increases in the country.