§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he intends taking any action against the Wirral non-metropolitan borough for its 23 per cent. rate rise in the current year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyBecause of the introduction of the community charge in April 1990, we do not intend to take action against any authority which budgets excessively in 1989–90. However, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has power to take early action to reduce the budget of any authority which he considers excessive next year.