§ 17. Mr. Costainasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many qualified valuers are employed in the Government's service; whether he is satisfied that the number is adequate to deal properly with the valuations instituted by the Capital Gains Tax and the betterment levy; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Harold LeverAt 1st January, 1968, there were 2,154 qualified valuers serving in the Valuation Office. Despite the shortage of valuers and the pressure of work upon the office, I have no reason to think that the valuations to which the hon. Member refers are not being properly dealt with.
§ Mr. CostainDoes the hon. Gentleman deny that there is delay in valuations due to the shortage of valuers? What steps will he take to ensure that the Chancellor in his next Budget does not make any more legislation which needs more valuers?
§ Mr. LeverThe office is certainly working under pressure but getting on quite satisfactorily with its work. As to the future, in view of the national shortage of qualified valuers, the Inland Revenue is trying to train some younger people and has 335 cadet valuers in post at present.
§ Mr. TinnDoes my hon. Friend recall that I drew his attention recently to two cases of newly established firms in my constituency, in a development area, which are being seriously inconvenienced by delays in valuation?
§ Mr. LeverI think that is a different point, but if my hon. Friend finds that the delay has not been cured I shall be happy to take the matter up.