§ Mr. Geraint Howellsasked the Secretary of State for Wales what consideration is being given by his Department to the reform of the rating system in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsWhile Ministerial responsibility for rating rests with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment, I am, of course, closely involved in the review of local government finance now taking place. Despite speculative reports in the press it is as yet too soon to comment on progress.