HC Deb 13 March 1951 vol 485 cc1287-8
40. Miss Irene Ward

asked the Minister of Local Government and Planning whether he is aware that development charges are arrived at by a process of bargaining; that many people are unaware of the fact that the original assessment is open to reduction; that no uniform system appears to be in operation; and if he will take steps to ensure that everyone is equally treated in this matter.

Mr. Dalton

When a district valuer is asked to assess a development charge, he tells the applicant what assessment he proposes and invites him to call and discuss it.

Miss Ward

Is the Minister aware that in a recent case a development charge of £250 was announced which, on negotiation, was reduced to £100? If £250 was a wrong or unfair sum why was that original high development charge put forward in the first place?

Mr. Dalton

I should have thought that the person concerned would have been very glad rather than otherwise.

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Speaker

This is only keeping several hon. Members from asking their Questions.

Mr. Harrison

On what grounds are these particular assessments made? What theory is the district valuer following?

Mr. Dalton

The basis of development charges is laid down in the Act. My hon. Friend will know that very well. The district valuer does his best and he invites the persons concerned to assist him by giving any evidence, if they have any, as to why the charge should be reduced, as in the case mentioned by the hon. Lady the Member for Tynemouth (Miss Ward).

Mr. Bossom

Could not the Minister see that the valuer decides the right value in the first place? It is all a try on?

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