§ 46. Mr. Penhaligonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the average likely rate increase for 1980–81.
§ Mr. KingThe average rate increase for 1980–81 will depend on the decisions taken over the next few weeks by individual local authorities. Within the limits of the present system, the Government have made a fair rate support grant settlement as regards the percentage of grant, the cash limit and distribution. I have asked local authorities to support the battle against inflation by raising not a penny more in rates than is absolutely necessary.