§ Mr. GRETTON (for Captain Faber)asked the Prime Minister if he will state on what date the Agricultural Rates Relief Act expires; and whether it is the intention of the Government to renew the Act?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)The Act expires on 31st March, 1910. The 387 Government will in due time propose a temporary renewal of the Act, in view of their intention to deal with the whole relations between Imperial and local taxation.
§ Mr. JOHN GRETTONIs it the intention of the Government to propose that renewal during the present Session of Parliament?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes.
§ Mr. W. P. BYLESWas not the effect of this legislation to make the urban ratepayer pay half the rates of the agricultural ratepayer?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of the question.