HC Deb 24 March 1959 vol 602 cc1110-1
35. Mr. Gower

asked the President of the Board of Trade what representations he has received from tenants of factories in Welsh industrial estates regarding future rentals; and if he will make a statement.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mr. John Rodgers)

A number of tenants in Wales have made representations to the Board of Trade in connection with the rents for proposed extensions. As I said in the course of the debate on 10th February, current market value will continue to be the basis of rents for our factories in Development Areas.

Mr. Gower

Although the long-term industrial prospects in Wales appear to be extremely good, does my hon. Friend recognise that particular parts of Wales are facing real problems? Does not it seem inappropriate in those circumstances that proposals should be made which may involve substantial increases in rent?

Mr. Rodgers

Of course, values have gone up too in the time since the rents were first negotiated. Tenants in England and Wales may appeal to the courts under the Landlord and Tenant Act, 1954, to determine the current market value when a lease is to be renewed. This does not apply in Scotland.