§ Mr. Simmondsasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of his recommendation to householders and industrialists to provide their own splinter-proof air-raid shelters, he will take appropriate steps to prevent any increase on this account of the rateable value of premises thus equipped?
§ Mr. LloydThe basis of assessment for local rates has been prescribed by Statute and the determination of assessments in accordance with the Statute is a matter entirely for the local assessment committee, subject to a right of appeal to the courts. My right hon. Friend has no jurisdiction in the matter.
§ Mr. Simmondsasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of serious delays in the acceptance by local authorities of the building plans of private air-raid 422W shelters submitted to them for approval, due to the inexperience of their staff in these problems; and whether he will consider approving certain types of standardised shelter construction so that these delays may be reduced and construction expedited?
§ Mr. LloydI am not aware of the delays to which my hon. Friend refers but I shall be very glad to look into the matter if he will give me particulars.