HC Deb 28 July 1915 vol 73 cc2285-6
48. Major HUNT

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that relief has been definitely promised as to local taxation to the poorer districts of the North of Scotland, especially to the outer islands, where local taxation is from 12s. to over 20s. in the £, he can say whether any steps are to be taken for their relief, in view of the fact that the rent of the shootings, which mostly provide for these local taxes, has been almost entirely done away with by the War?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I am not aware of the definite promise to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, and while I am fully conscious of the financial difficulties that any material reduction in annual rental in these districts might produce, the available information does not enable me to judge how far his description of the present position is well founded.

Major HUNT

Does the right hon. Gentleman dispute that the present Minister of Munitions made a definite promise about four years ago that this matter would be dealt with?

Mr. HOGGE

Would it not be better to let the land for small holders instead of renting it for shooting?