§ Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what arrangements he proposes in Scotland to give effect to that part of his social security proposals relating to rates contributions; if, in the light of Her Majesty's Government's proposals for abolition of rates in Scotland, such arrangements are likely to be of a transitional nature only; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonWe have always made it clear that our proposals on rates would need to be developed in the light of consultations and discussions on the wider proposals for the reform of local government finance. That remains the position.