34. Sir MERVYN MANNINGHAMBULLERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the estimated figure of the total contribution which will be payable by the Exchequer in relief of the rates on agricultural land and buildings after the passing of the Rating Bill; what would be the estimated cost of giving re- 333 lief to agricultural land and buildings on the same basis as that proposed for industrial and transport undertakings, namely, 75 per cent, of the total rate payable on the present assessments; and, if no estimate can yet be given, will he state which of these two figures would be the greater?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe total direct relief which will accrue to the agricultural industry from the rating proposals of the Government is estimated at roughly £5,000,000 per annum for Great Britain. This takes no account of the reduction of freights. I am unable to give a figure for the alternative basis of relief suggested by my hon. Friend. In any case, it would be inconsistent with the Government proposals which provide that the dwelling of the manufacturer and the farmer alike shall continue fully rateable.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSApart from generalisations, can the right hon. Gentleman justify this gift of £5,000,000 to agriculture?
§ Mr. SPEAKERNot at Question Time.