§ 43. Captain STRICKLANDasked the Minister of Health what will be the effect on local government authorities concerned occasioned by the decision of the railway assessment authority that the London and North Eastern Railway Company's hereditaments have no value; whether that decision will affect general Exchequer contributions on account of loss of rates; and, if so, by what amount?
Sir H. YOUNGThe effect of this decision, if maintained, would be the loss to local authorities having hereditaments of the company in their area of the rates on such hereditaments. If would not affect the total of the general Exchequer contribution, which is settled by the Local Government Act, 1929, but would necessitate readjustments between local authorities of their shares in that contribution.
§ Captain STRICKLANDDoes my right hon. Friend think that this valuation can reasonably be taken as a guide should the Socialists at any time wish to nationalise the railways?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEWill my right hon. Friend consider the case of the dock areas and areas where the railways have large possessions, as it is a difficult matter for local authorities to find any extra rates?
Sir H. YOUNGMy hon. and gallant Friend will be aware that it is not for me to settle the valuation but for the assessment authority.
§ Mr. LOGANIf such decisions are valid, can any representations be made by the Minister to the various bodies concerned with regard to them?
§ Mr. LOGANIn view of such a decision being taken as genuine, is there any likelihood of the Minister calling the attention of the local authorities to such a decision?
Sir H. YOUNGI can assure the hon. Member that it is not necessary for me to call the attention of local authorities to decisions of which they are immediately aware.