§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in view of the fact that many of the large industrial firms and businesses are announcing their intention of moving away from the Greater London area due to the high rates, thus increasing the unemployment problem, and resulting in loss of rate income, if he will take action to assist these London councils in overcoming these problems; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe responsibility for high rate levels rests with the authorities concerned. My right hon. Friend has issued authorities with expenditure guidance. If authorities spent in line with this guidance, rate increases in 1983–84 should generally be low, and there should be some scope for rate reductions. The House debated the English rate support grant settlement on 20 January. My right hon. Friend does not propose to make a further statement.