§ 52. Mr. Keelingasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that rating valuation officers, in asserting their right of entry to houses under Section 60 of the Local Government Act, 1948, are saying, even in reply to occupants who have stated that they are at work elsewhere all day, that their own hours of duty are only from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.; and whether he will give instructions for the valuation officers to make visits at hours convenient to the occupants.
§ Mr. GaitskellThere is a standing instruction to valuation officers to meet every reasonable request as to the date and time of inspection of premises and to arrange a visit outside normal hours of duty if need be. I am making inquiries into the specific case about which the hon. Member has written to me.
§ Mr. KeelingAs the valuation officer made the statement in a letter which I sent the Minister two weeks ago, will the right hon. Gentleman forthwith administer the necessary correction to this valuation officer?
§ Mr. GaitskellI will write to the hon. Member as soon as I have the appropriate information.
§ Mr. KeelingThe right hon. Gentleman has it.