HC Deb 22 October 1935 vol 305 cc4-6
Mr. MAITLAND

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the large number of Sheerness ratepayers who were recently summoned for nonpayment of drainage rates and whether he can hold out any prospect of an alleviation in such cases where rates in the locality are excessive?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Elliot)

I am informed that of 7,310 ratepayers who received a demand for drainage rates, 436 were summoned, and that of these 172 paid without court proceedings. As regards the second part of the question, my hon. Friend will be aware that a sum amounting to nearly £55,000 is being spent on drainage works, including necessary sea defences, in the Isle of Sheppey. I understand, however, that the Drainage Board is anxious to take all possible steps to alleviate any excessive rates and has already made a differential rating order, which I have confirmed. The rate for the year ending 31st March, 1936, partly as a result of this order, is reduced by 50 per cent. as compared with the previous rate calculated for a full year.

Mr. MAITLAND

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that, after the differentiation to which he has referred has been made, the drainage rate now levied is equivalent to a rate of 1s. 10d. in the £, and whether in those circumstances he will consult with the Chancellor of the Exchequer or the Minister of Health to see whether some special grant can be made?

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it does not make much difference to the sense of justice if you are asked to pay 1s. 10d. or 3s. 8d. in the £; that these people who are being asked to pay do not benefit in the slightest way from the expenditure of the money; and that the money has been expended in draining a different area?

Mr. ELLIOT

It would clearly be impossible for me to enter into a discussion of the merits of the question at the present time. The sea defences of the Isle of Sheppey are of interest to all the ratepayers there, but I can only say to my hon. Friend the Member for Faversham (Mr. Maitland) that I shall certainly keep the situation in mind, and shall be very glad if anything can be done to alleviate excessive hardship on any particular group of ratepayers.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Yes, but does the right hon. Gentleman deny that the expenditure of this money can benefit the landlords only and does not benefit the people who have to pay the rates?

Mr. ELLIOT

I should have thought that the benefit proceeding from the scheme would be just as much for the tenant as it is for the landlord.