§ Mr. Gwilym JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what will be the national non-domestic rate poundage for Wales for 1992–93 and the distributable amount of non-domestic rates which will flow from this.
§ Mr. David HuntWe propose that the national non-domestic rate poundage for Wales should rise in line with the increase in the retail price index for the 12 months to September 1991 giving a poundage for 1992–93 of £0.425. This represents an increase of just over 4 per cent. compared with just under 11 per cent. between 1990–91 and 1991–92. We believe this is fair and reasonable, and will be widely welcomed. It reflects the Government's success in reducing inflation, and will demonstrate to business the benefits of the uniform business rate. We propose that the distributable amount of non-domestic rates income will be £536 million.