§ Mr. JOYNSON HICKSasked the Prime Minister whether he has had time to consider the resolution of the conference of urban district councils held in July last and sent to him with regard to the rating of extra-parochial cemeteries under the Burial Act, 1855; and whether he can see his way to introduce legislation for the purpose of alleviating the hardship which is inflicted upon many districts, for example, that of Hanwell, by reason of the fact that under the existing law such cemeteries are only liable to be rated at the value at which they were assessed at the time of their acquisition?
§ The PRESIDENT of the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. Burns)My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I am aware of the legal situation, which can only be altered by legislation, but I cannot make any promise of legislation on the subject at the present time.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSThe right hon. Gentleman has not answered that part of the question which asks if he has had time "for the consideration of the Resolution"?
§ Mr. BURNSYes, I should be pleased to see the hon. Member and tell him I think in some respects he is under a misapprehension.