HC Deb 15 July 1981 vol 8 c415W
16. Mr. Cook

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will state the basis on which he calculated that £53 million of the budget of Lothian regional council was excessive and unreasonable.

Mr. Rifkind

The basis of my right hon. Friend's proposal to reduce rate support grant payable to Lothian regional council by £47 million is set out in the report laid before the House on 10 July.

21. Mr. Strang

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what response he has had from the Lothian regional council to his communications that he deems its current expenditure excessive and unreasonable; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Rifkind

I refer the hon. Gentleman to my right hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for West Stirlingshire (Mr. Canavan).