§ 81. Mr. OLDFIELDasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the increase in rates upon house property, especially, of the bungalow type, in parts of southern Essex, consequent upon the passing of the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925; and whether, in view of the fact that such houses are frequently without those local services for which the rates are levied and that their annual value is artificially inflated by a temporary increase of demand over supply, he will 2083 consider introducing legislation for the purpose of relieving the burden imposed upon these householders?
§ Mr. GREENWOODSome communications have been addressed to my Department as to the effect of the general revaluation under the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925, in the area referred to. If any ratepayer considers his assessment excessive, it is open to him to make a proposal for the amendment of the valuation list, and, if dissatisfied with the decision of the Assessment Committee thereon, he has a right of appeal to Quarter Sessions. I do not think it would be, desirable to attempt to limit by legislation the discretion of the local authorities in regard to the valuation of particular rateable hereditaments.
§ Mr. OLDFIELDIs my right hon. Friend aware that in many cases the value of appeal to Quarter Sessions is very much limited by the financial means at the disposal of the people who wish to appeal? Furthermore, will my right hon. Friend consider some means of bringing within the reach of persons who live in such houses the amenities of the local services for which they pay?