Julian Lewis
Main Page: Julian Lewis (Conservative - New Forest East)(7 years, 10 months ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text
Sajid Javid
The hon. Lady will be fully aware that this country had a huge budget deficit back in 2010, thanks to the previous Labour Government. All areas of Government have had to make a contribution to dealing with that, including local government. I am sure that she will welcome the changes to adult social care that were announced last month.
Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con)
Does the new system allow local authorities any discretion with regard to business rates levied on hospitals that, like Southampton general hospital, face a rather large increase in business rates following a revaluation?
Sajid Javid
I can tell my right hon. Friend that the new system does allow some discretion to councils, but I do not think it will apply to hospitals. It will apply to businesses, and only in one direction, but as he has made the point, I will take a further look.