HC Deb 18 June 1963 vol 679 cc196-7
2. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is aware that disproportionate rate burdens in the country districts, despite limited public services, are encouraging the depopulation of the countryside; and what steps he proposes to take to counteract this tendency.

Sir K. Joseph

In 1962–63 in England and Wales the average rate payment per dwelling in rural districts was only three-quarters of the average payment in urban areas other than London—less if London is included. I cannot therefore accept my hon. Friend's premise.

Mr. Digby

Is my right hon. Friend aware of how far behind these public services often fall and that there are still many people who wish to live in the real countryside but who are deterred from doing so by the amount they have to pay for what they can get?

Sir K. Joseph

I do not disguise that behind the averages there are areas where there is a problem here, but my hon. Friend will bear in mind that education and health services are probably provided to the same standards in the country as elsewhere, that they are certainly more expensive, and that the lack of any services should be reflected in the rental values an which rateable values are based.

Sir J. Maitland

Does my right hon. Friend realise the other kinds of burdens which country people have to bear, such as drainage rates which can weigh inequitably on people who live in the countryside? Is he also aware that the diminution of the railway services which we are to expect will mean that other services will be even further diminished?

Sir K. Joseph

My hon. Friend must realise that I am answering strictly the Question on the Order Paper, which is about the level of rates.

Mr. C. Hughes

Is it not the case that the chief causes of depopulation are, first, lack of employment and, secondly, lack of amenity, and that the increased rate burden which is taking effect in the rural areas as a result of revaluation is adding to the number of causes of depopulation? Will this aspect be borne in mind in the inquiry which the right hon. Gentleman has just instituted?

Sir K. Joseph

As far as I can see, there is a considerable movement into the country, and depopulation, where it exists, is largely the result of mechanisation and improved efficiency in agriculture.