HC Deb 17 July 1978 vol 954 cc81-2W
Mr. John Ellis

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in view of the fact that the last local election for the parish council at Alkborough cost the parish council £131.05 when the product of a penny rate is only £284, if he will review the position where parish councils are faced with such a problem with a view to giving financial assistance; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Guy Barnett

The Government's main means of support to local government is through the block grant, and par ish council expenditure counts as relevant expenditure for rate support grant purposes. Parish councils do not themselves receive rate support grant; instead they precept on the districts. The rate support grant will, however, reduce the burden on the ratepayers generally.