§ Mr. RichardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement about the 1993–94 financial settlement for local authorities in Wales.
§ Mr. David HuntI have decided to delay the announcement of the Government's proposals for total standard spending and aggregate external finance until the autumn, because of the particular circumstances of the 1993–94 settlement.
In arriving at proposals I need to take into account the implications for the level of council tax. These will rest in part on the valuation of properties. This will not be completed in time for a July announcement.
I am also concerned that the most up-to-date and accurate information is available to determine the financing of local authorities' new responsibilities for community care.
In the circumstances, I concluded that local government in Wales would be better served by an autumn settlement.