§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in the light of the recently announced rate increase by Ealing borough council, he will examine the case for rate-capping that council; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeEaling, on the basis of the previous administration's budget for 1986–87, did not come within the criteria for rate limitation in 1987–88. It was not selected and my right hon. Friend is therefore unable to set a maximum rate for Ealing in the coming financial year.
§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of the effects of the recently announced rate increase by Ealing borough council on (a) domestic ratepayers and (b) businesses; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeThe effects of the recently announced rate increase by Ealing would be severe. The increase in the rates by 64.8 per cent. for domestic ratepayers would result 343W in the average domestic rate bill rising from £384 to £632. The 57.3 per cent. increase for businesses would adversely affect their competitiveness. Householders and businesses would have to make compensating savings to meet their sharply increased bills.
§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received concerning the recently announced rate increase by Ealing borough council; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeAll the representations received by the Department from residents in the London borough of Ealing have been against the very significant rate increases due to be imposed by their council.