§ 17. Colonel Sir ARTHUR H0LBROOKasked the Minister of Health if he has received complaints as to the large in- 1117 creases recently made in the assessments of voluntary hospitals; and whether, having regard to the benefits conferred on the community by these institutions and the financial difficulties under which many of them are suffering, he will consider the exemption of all voluntary hospitals from local rates?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Chamberlain)I have received some representations on this subject. The exemption of hospitals from rating could not be effected without legislation, and, in my opinion, any such proposal cannot be considered apart from the similar claims made on behalf of other charitable and public institutions.
§ Sir A. HOLBROOKIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that churches and chapels are relieved altogether from local rates, and does he not consider that voluntary hospitals, which are doing so much good, might be relieved?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINI think the answer which I gave covers that point.
§ Mr. R. MORRISONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that one very large hospital has had its assessment increased from £300 to £l,600?