HC Deb 06 March 1968 vol 760 cc417-8
10. Mr. W. Baxter

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the estimated average increase in local authority rates for the current year; and how this increase compares with previous years.

Mr. Ross

I estimate the increase in total rate demand in 1967–68 to be about 1.7 per cent., equivalent to a reduction of 6d. for domestic ratepayers, and an increase of 4d. for non-domestic ratepayers. For previous years the latest figures show increases of 7.5 per cent. in 1964–65, 9 per cent. in 1965–66 and 17 per cent. in 1966–67.

Mr. Baxter

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that higher rating in Scotland is having a detrimental effect in attracting industrialists to Scotland? Will he review the whole rating system as it applies to Scotland vis-à-vis England?

Mr. Ross

I think my hon. Friend is wrong in suggesting that there is a detrimental effect on industrialists coming to Scotland because, in the past two or three years, they have been coming there at a greater rate than ever before. In contrast with England and Wales, industry in Scotland still has the benefit of a certain amount of derating.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in Glasgow, commercial firms are being forced out of business by high rates? Does he recall his promise on two occasions that something would be done? When shall we have action to save Glasgow from committing economic suicide?

Mr. Ross

I have never given any rash promises to do anything quickly about this. The business acumen of those firms should have been such that they could appreciate exactly what they were doing when they took over their premises and accepted the leases, bearing in mind the existing valuation laws in Scotland.

Mr. Taylor

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment.