§ 38. Mr. Bevinsasked the Minister of Health the total valuation expenses of all local government authorities in 1947–48; and the estimated cost of the transferred functions to the Inland Revenue for 1950–51.
§ Mr. BevanThe figures are in no way comparable since there was only routine expenditure in 1947–48. In 1950–51 preparations are being made for a complete new valuation of the country. The routine expenses of local authorities on valuation in 1947–48 amounted to just over £11 million. I understand that the Inland Revenue estimates for 1950–51 provide a sum of £2,350,000 for salaries in preparation for the forthcoming revaluation.
§ Mr. BevinsIs not it a fact that the Estimate for the Inland Revenue included 1893 some quarter of a million pounds to be paid to panels of outside valuers, to whom part of this work has had to be farmed out because the Inland Revenue has been unable to recruit the necessary staff.
§ Mr. BevanThat always was the case. A very large number of authorities used outside valuers in this way. I do not know why the hon. Member is taking exception to it.