§ 40. Mr. DREWEasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the present incidence of rating burdens upon new water undertakings in rural districts, he will take steps to amend the basis of assessment so as to secure that they are assessed at a nominal figure only?
Sir H. YOUNGThe assessment of water undertakings to rates is a matter for the local assessment authorities and the courts and I have no jurisdiction in regard to it. I understand, however, that the question is engaging the attention of the Central Valuation Committee, and any representations submitted by the authorities on whose behalf my hon. Friend speaks would doubtless receive their careful consideration.
§ 41. Mr. DREWEasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the need for economy, he will introduce legislation to secure a postponement of the quinquennial valuation made necessary by the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925?
Sir H. YOUNGThe suggestion of my hon. Friend has already received my careful consideration in the light of a memorandum submitted by the Central Valuation Committee and of representations from other bodies and persons. After reviewing all the relevant considerations, including the urgent need for economy in public expenditure, I do not consider that the introduction of such legislation would be justified.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEHow many county councils have protested against this expenditure?
§ 47. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Minister of Health what is the 1264 estimated expenditure involved for all local authorities and the Ministry of Health in connection with the second quinquennial valuation to be carried out under the Rating and Valuation Act, 1925?
Sir H. YOUNGMaterial is not available for a precise estimate, but I am satisfied that for the country as a whole the necessary expenditure in connection with the preparation of the second valuation lists under the Act of 1925 should be very much less than that incurred in preparing the first lists.