§ 9. Mr. Bellengerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the anomalies caused by the present method of assessment for drainage rates; and what proposals or plans he has under consideration to spread this burden equally on a national basis rather than to limited areas of the catchment boards.
§ Mr. John HareNeither the Heneage nor the Waverley Committees recommended any change in the basis of rating by internal drainage boards, but consideration is being given in the present 8 discussions with the industry to any changes, other than in the basis of rating, which might prove helpful.
§ Mr. BellengerWhilst grateful in some respects for that reply, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he realises that when it comes to serious flooding in certain areas of the country it becomes a national matter? Therefore, if it is not possible to deal with catchment areas on a national basis, could this not be done on a communal basis? This would be fairer than the present method of assessment, which draws arbitrary contour and boundary lines as between one property and another?
§ Mr. HareI am glad the right hon. Gentleman has said what he has said in the first part of his supplementary question. I am very concerned over the effect of flooding in certain parts of this country. Because of that, I am pressing on with my discussions with the various sections of the industry, who have strong ideas on this subject.