§ 53. Mr. Fallonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many English non-metropolitan district councils levy higher rates than 253.7p in the pound.
§ Mr. ChopeThere are 27 non-metropolitan district councils with average general rate poundages of more than 253.7p in 1986–87.
§ 54. Mr. Leighasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he last met leaders of the authorities which are to be rate-capped in the next financial year to discuss their levels of spending and rates.
§ Mr. ChopeOn 12 February, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State met local authority association representatives, some from rate-capped authorities, to discuss the Local Government Finance Bill, which includes provision for rate limitation in 1987–88.