§ 1. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he can yet make a statement about his review of local government finances, including the question of derating of industry.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Duncan Sandys)I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Bristol, Central (Mr. Awbery) last Tuesday, of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. HyndAs it is as long ago as last June that the Minister said nothing could be done about this until the results of this year's revaluation were known, and as they are now known, does not the Minister think it is time we had a decision, and especially that industry should he asked to pay its fair share of local rates with shops, offices and householders?
§ Mr. SandysAs I have already explained, the question of derating of industry is a very large issue. It is being examined, as I think it is proper to examine it, with other related matters as part of a comprehensive review of local government finance. That is bound to take some little time.