§ 28. Major BARNETTasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether he is aware that the Crown Estate Paving Commission, in levying a rate upon the tenants of the Regent's Park Estate for the period of 12 months beginning Christmas, 1920, and ending Christmas, 1921, levied the same not upon the basis of the existing valuation list, but on the basis of a valuation list which only came into force on the 6th April, 1921; and, if so, whether any precedent or justification can be adduced for basing a rate upon a valuation nonexistent at the time when this rate was struck?
Sir A. BOSCAWENI have been asked to reply. I am informed that the Crown Estate Paving Commissioners levied a rate for the period from 25th December, 1920, to 24th December, 1921, on the basis of the valuation referred to by the hon. and gallant member; that the powers of the Crown Estate Paving Commissioners in respect of the assessment of property and levying a rate are conferred by the Act 5, Geo. IV, c. 100, and that the Commissioners are advised that the rate was levied in accordance with the powers conferred upon the Commissioners by that Statute.
§ Major BARNETTDoes the right hon. Gentleman suggest that a rate can be levied in December on the basis of a valuation to be made in April?
Sir A. BOSCAWENIt appears to have been an intelligent anticipation of events. I am advised that they acted within their powers.