§ 13. Mr. N. McLeanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that under the Local Government Act, 1958, which applies to England and Wales only, there is provision for electricity undertakings being rated after 1st April, 1959, on lines similar to those now operating for gas, with weightings for generation and distribution; and if he will introduce similar arrangements for Scotland.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. J. Nixon Browne)My right hon. Friend has agreed with the local authority associations and the electricity boards that the present arrangements under which the boards make contributions for the benefit of local 863 authorities should be reviewed after the revaluation in 1961. The review will cover the possibility of replacing these arrangements by direct rate payments.
§ Mr. McLeanWhile thanking my hon. Friend for that Answer, may I ask whether it would be possible for the Secretary of State to carry out this review before the new regulations about rating valuation in Scotland come into force?
§ Mr. BrowneMy right hon. Friend will start the review so that the new arrangements can be brought in for the 1961–62 rating year.