§ 32. Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions he has had with valuation assessors about new town valuations for houses.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonNone, Sir.
§ Mr. EadieIs my hon. Friend aware that allegations have been made that under the rate structure for new towns there will be higher valuations, because assessors take into consideration the hypothetical rents charged in making assessments? Does he not think that this is grossly unfair to tenants of new towns, if they are to be charged higher rates than tenants in surrounding burghs and counties? Does he not think that this is a case for having a meeting with the assessors?
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. Questions and Answers must be reasonably brief. Many hon. Members wish to ask Questions.
§ Dr. MabonNo, Sir. It would not be proper. The Secretary of State has no power to intervene in the statutory process of valuation for rating. That is as a result of the Act of 1956, passed by the previous Administration, which was to last 100 years. The valuations for rating are not now based on the actual rent passing, but on the rent which would be appropriate, assuming no shortage or surplus of houses. I can only say to my hon. Friend that until such time as we amend the Act, the position will be as laid down.