Mr. Edward M. Taylor:

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the burden of local rates per head of population in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and Greenock, respectively, in the current financial year.

Approximate figures are, for Glasgow £27 10s., for Edinburgh £21 17s., for Dundee £21 15s., for Aberdeen £24 8s. and for Greenock £18 3s.

Mr. Taylor:

Would the Secretary of State agree that these figures are particularly high, especially for Glasgow? In view of the heavy rate burden in Scottish cities, particularly those which are Socialist-controlled, and the prospect of an increased burden by the Government's financial measures, will he make it obligatory on local authorities to provide facilities for the monthly payment of rates?

My hon. Friend will appreciate that rates are inevitably high in industrial cities. As he knows, industrial subjects are still to a certain extent derated and, in consequence, the heavier the industrial element in a city the greater the burden. He will also appreciate that this rating business reflects the problem for the local authorities in these industrial cities of carrying the burden of replacing a century of slums.

Does the Secretary of State intend by his reply to suggest that the derating to a certain extent of industry is something that should cease?

I am only pointing out what the right hon. Gentleman should know, that it reflects a further burden upon other ratepayers.