Business Rates: Devolution Debate

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Department: Wales Office

Business Rates: Devolution

Lord Scriven Excerpts
Wednesday 21st December 2016

(7 years, 11 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth Portrait Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth
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My Lords, I congratulate my noble friend on his commercial. I do not think that it needs any added words from me.

Lord Scriven Portrait Lord Scriven (LD)
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My Lords, I draw the House’s attention to my interest in the register as a member of Sheffield City Council. On the Question asked by my noble friend Lady Thornhill, will the Minister give a specific commitment that no new burdens will be placed on councils as part of any review until the funding crisis in social services is dealt with?

Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth Portrait Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth
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My Lords, as I have indicated, we are moving forward, essentially by consensus, in discussing this matter with our colleagues in local government. I have also indicated that the 100% business rate retention scheme will be in force by the end of the Parliament. I am sure that the noble Lord will understand that we would expect local authorities to pick up something in return for that added money.