HC Deb 25 October 1967 vol 751 cc1714-5
19. Mr. Brewis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether it is his policy that buildings on agricultural holdings used for intensive livestock production are to be fully rated; and whether he will make a statement.

37. Mr. Stodart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received in connection with recent decisions affecting the rating of agricultural buildings; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Buchan

The National Farmers' Union of Scotland has recently made certain representations to my Depart. ment on this matter and my right hon. Friend is considering these.

Mr. Brewis

Will the Minister say why his right hon. Friend has allowed these buildings in Scotland to be assessed for rates, per sq. ft., at twice or three times those applying in England? Does not this make it impossible for Scottish farmers to compete?

Mr. Buchan

With respect, that is not the province of the Secretary of State; it is a matter for the valuation authorities. We are bound by statute, as they are. The whole question that has arisen as a result of their decisions is being considered.

Mr. Stodart

Is the Minister aware that this is a difficult problem and that it is not limited to the question of intensive units? Will his right hon. Friend take into careful account the fact that a higher poundage in respect of rates in Scotland will almost certainly put Scottish producers at a very great competitive disadvantage compared with people owning similar accommodation in England?

Mr. Buchan

All aspects of this matter will be brought in to consideration.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Is the Minister aware that the rating position as it applies at present penalises particularly those who are adopting modern methods of production, and that in many cases this is incompatible with the objectives of the Farm Improvement Scheme?

Mr. Buchan

This point has been put very forcibly. All these questions are under consideration, and nothing can be added by way of an answer at this stage.

Mr. Baker

Does not the Minister agree that the way to sort out this problem once and for all is to make a small Amendment, to wit, defining the use of the words "agricultural land" in the latest Rating Act? That would solve the problem in one.

Mr. Buchan

I am afraid that not many people involved with this problem find it as easy as that, including the Scottish National Farmers' Union.

Mr. Brewis

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter at the earliest possible moment on the Adjournment.