(13 years, 11 months ago)
Commons ChamberI thank the hon. Gentleman for his comments. I understand that he wishes to mitigate some of the criticism that his own councillors have made of the various settlements, but I remind him that the cuts in area-based grant had to be effected in year, in this year, quite apart from what would happen after 2011.
I am indebted to my hon. Friend. He is, of course, absolutely right.