HC Deb 03 April 1946 vol 421 c1245
48. Commander Maitland

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider setting up a Royal Commission to examine and report on the whole principles of rating and valuation of private property and public utility companies in this country.

The Prime Minister

The Government are aware that reforms are needed in the present system of rating and valuation, but I doubt whether the setting up of a Royal Commission at the present stage would be the best way of considering the matter.

Commander Maitland

Will the Prime Minister consider the case of people living in the country who feel, with some justification, that they are not getting value for their money? Does he realise the effect this is having in slowing down any drive which should be made to bring amenities to the countryside?

The Prime Minister

I am afraid it often happens, in any system of local govern. ment, that there are some people who do not think they are getting value for their money.