§ Mr. GummerTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister how he will ensure that the new financial system for local authorities will provide an effective framework within which councils can initiate innovative ways of delivering customer-food services. [69986]
§ Mr. RaynsfordOur comprehensive agenda for reform of the local government finance system was set out in last December's White Paper "Strong Local leadership—Quality Public Services". Our finance reforms will give councils more space to innovate in all areas of service delivery by providing local authorities with greater freedom to borrow, invest, trade, charge and set spending priorities.