HC Deb 17 November 1965 vol 720 cc1145-6
50. Mr. Buchan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will refer to the Scottish Valuation Advisory Council the matter of the discrepancy whereby large estates in the Highlands with lucrative fishing and sporting rights are ratedat low levels.

Dr. Dickson Mabon

The valuation of fishing and sporting rights is a matter for the local assessors acting in accordance with valuation law. There is to be a general revaluation in 1966, and I hope my hon. Friend will agree that it would be better to await the results of that before pursuing the matter further.

Mr. Buchan

Will my hon. Friend keep in mind that within land which is normally regarded as exempt because it is not productive there is very valuable and remunerative land which is used for shooting and deer stalking? For example, in Inverness-shire there is an estate of 22,000 acres on which only £330 is paid in rates despite large and lucrative fishing and deer rights?

Dr. Mabon

Yes, Sir. It would, however, be better to await the up-to-date 1966 figures before making a fresh evaluation of the position.

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