HC Deb 31 October 1984 vol 65 cc1042-3W
Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many local authorities in 1984–85 are receiving less block grant in real terms than they were rate support grant in 1979–80.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

It is not possible to compare block grant receipts in 1984–85 with rate support grant entitlements in 1979–80. The block grant system incorporates full equalisation of expenditure needs for district councils. The pre-1981–82 RSG arrangements did not.