§ 41. Mr. BARNESasked the President of the Board of Agriculture, in regard to the Winterbourne Zelstone estate, Dorset, if he can give the amount of the assessment prior to the purchase by the county council and the amount at the present date; upon whom do they fall; and can he see his way to ordering a revaluation of the land and adaptations, with a view of easing the burden of small holders?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)I am informed by the county council that the Winterbourne Zelstone estate prior to the purchase was assessed at £679 10s. (namely, land, £575 2s., and buildings, £104 8s.), and that the present assessment is £821 (namely, land, £600 10s., and buildings, £220 10s.). There is some doubt, however, whether the former assessment includes all the property included in the 992 latter, and I am making further inquiry on this point. Under the terms of their agreements the small holders are liable for the payment of rates. The Board have no power to order a revaluation, but it is open to the small holders to appeal against their assessments if they desire to do so.
§ Mr. BARNESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these houses have been condemned by the medical officer of health?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI do not think that arises out of the question.