HC Deb 04 December 1968 vol 774 cc1498-9
2. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will complete his review of the rating of agricultural building.

16. Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on his discussions with the Scottish National Farmers' Union regarding the industrial rating of intensive agricultural units.

The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Norman Buchan)

My right hon. Friend has not yet concluded his consideration of this question.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

How much longer will this be allowed to drag on? Does the hon. Gentleman not realise that, as each week passes, more anomalies and nonsenses are shown up? In all seriousness, cannot the Government take a grip on this and try to resolve the problem? There is great concern in the agricultural industry.

Mr. Buchan

I am aware of the concern, but it is even more important that we get the right answers. Many problems are involved. As the hon. Member should know, we want, when we eventually decide, to get the right solution.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Would the hon. Member recall that, while he is trying to get the right answers, farmers—who are not receiving S.E.T. premiums, as non-manufacturing, or R.E.P., or industrial investment grants—are still being charged rates as if they occupied industrial premises? Would he realise that this is a grotesque anomaly to continue much longer?

Mr. Buchan

The hon. Member should know that all the costs to which he refers are taken into adequate consideration at the Annual Price Review. Scottish farmers know under which Government they benefit; it is this one.

Mr. Stodart

Can the hon. Gentleman tell us anything about the consultations which he is having with the Scottish National Farmers' Union? Is he aware of the statement made yesterday that their representations on British Standard Time were entirely brushed aside? Would he give an undertaking—

Mr. Speaker

Order. We are discussing that rating of agricultural buildings.

Mr. Stodart

With respect, Mr. Speaker, I was about to ask whether the hon. Gentleman would assure us that representations on this matter will not be equally brushed aside.

Mr. Buchan

We have never brushed aside any discussions with, or points made by, the National Farmers' Union. We have considered them on their merits. We have been considering their representations and, if they wish to see me again, I will again listen to them on this question.