§ Mr. Richard Shepherdasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what estimate he has made of the likely percentage rate increases in the current year.
§ Mr. HeseltineThe figures for rate poundages payable as from 1 April 1979 are:
Average percentage increase on previous year Non-domestic 13.1 Domestic 18.4
§ Mr. Richard Shepherdasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he will take to prevent local authorities from imposing excessive rate increases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HeseltineI have made it clear that I expect all authorities to co-operate fully in achieving the Government's objective of reducing the overall level of public expenditure. If it become clear, however, that some authorities were imposing large rate increases in order to maintain high levels of expenditure, I would be prepared to consider legislation. Its form would depend on the circumstances.