50. Mr. Buchanasked 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 MabonThe 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 1146 be better to await the results of that before pursuing the matter further.
Mr. BuchanWill 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. MabonYes, Sir. It would, however, be better to await the up-to-date 1966 figures before making a fresh evaluation of the position.