Rates Bill (Allocation of Time)

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 3:42 pm on 29 February 1984.

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Photo of Mr John Biffen Mr John Biffen , North Shropshire 3:42, 29 February 1984

That is not relevant, as local authorities will be subject to the decisions of their local electorates within the parameters that this legislation will set. If the hon. Gentleman is so dismissive of local elections as to suppose that they are invalidated merely because of the guidance and disciplines that the Bill contains, I think he is showing a disregard for the potency of local elections.

Obviously, setting a fair rate limit is not a task which can or should be rushed. There are a number of stages to be observed. The highest spending authorities must be identified and formally designated. In fairness to the local authorities, an expenditure level must be set early enough in the year to allow them time to make the necessary plans. Arrangements must be made to achieve the required savings or to make representations to the Secretary of State that a higher figure is necessary.

Subsequently, the expenditure figure must be translated into a rate poundage figure and time provided for Parliament to debate that figure before the authority has to make its rate or precept. All of that process cannot begin until the legislation is complete. For that reason the Government feel that it is right to ask for the Bill to complete all its stages well before Parliament rises for the summer recess.

To give time for the Bill to be properly examined in the other place, this House must complete its consideration in time for it to have its Second Reading in the other place before Easter.