HC Deb 07 December 1954 vol 535 cc767-8
43. Sir E. Errington

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware that improvements to houses not involving additional building or structural alterations may give rise to an increase of rateable value which may take the houses over the range of composition allowances given to property owners by local authorities; and whether he will take steps to avoid this disincentive to the making of improvements to that class of property.

Mr. Deedes

My right hon. Friend is aware that improvements to houses might bring their rateable value over the limit for the compulsory rating of owners, but he does not think that this would discourage owners from improving their property, especially as they might still enter into agreement with the rating authority to pay the rates.

Sir E. Errington

Does my hon. Friend realise that if it is desirable to put a bathroom into a house of this character, the effect is that there will be no possibility of increasing the rent?

Mr. Deedes

That does not preclude agreement being reached on the rent collection subsequent to the increase in the rateable value.