§ 29. Mr. Bullardasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will instruct valuation officers, in determining the assessments of properties in seaside towns 969 and villages, to make a distinction between properties in genuine and continuous residential use and those used for casual weekend and holiday purposes.
§ Mr. MaudlingNo, Sir. Valuation officers are required by law to value residential properties of all kinds according to the rentals at which they might be expected to let.
§ Mr. BullardWill my right hon. Friend look at this Question again? In the minds of people who have to live in these seaside towns and villages there is a great distinction between regular and continuous use and use made by people who can well afford to live in these houses just for holiday purposes. Will my right hon. Friend make inquiries and see whether some allowance cannot be made to these people who do not want to go through all the business of appeal and whose claim I consider is very just?
§ Mr. MaudlingThat would be very difficult. This is part of the basic law on valuation which Parliament has laid down, and the valuation officers must carry out their legal duties.