asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are the present levels of domestic and business rates in the city of Liverpool; and if he will make a statement.

The 1986–87 general (business) rate in the city of Liverpool is 308·36p. The domestic rate is 289·86p. Decisions about the local rate for 1987–88 are for the city council. Subject to the enactment of the Local Government Finance Bill in its present form, the joint authorities for police, fire and civil defence and transport must set their precepts within limits requiring cuts on 1986–87 precepts of 3·8 per cent. 5·4 per cent. and 36·5 per cent.