HL Deb 02 November 1987 vol 489 cc881-2WA
Lord Chelwood

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will take urgent steps to control any excessive spending of some local authorities through the large-scale boosting of their capital assets through leasing arrangements.

Lord Belstead

It is a matter of concern that a minority of local authorities have entered or proposed entering into agreements which enhance their current spending power at the expense of incurring substantial future commitments. My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for the Environment is keeping under review the need for further measures to ensure financially prudent behaviour by councils.