HC Deb 23 April 1969 vol 782 cc449-50
9. Mr. Monro

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will now make a statement on the rating of agricultural buildings.

Mr. Buchan

The National Farmers Union of Scotland has provided my right hon. Friend with a very full account of its views on the rating of intensive livestock buildings, and he discussed this subject with it following its annual general meeting last month. He is considering its representations, together with the other relevant factors, and will make a statement as soon as possible.

Mr. Monro

Why is the Minister taking so long to come to a decision in principle on a matter about which he has a great deal of information? Is he aware that he could put a short Bill through the House this Session with all-party support?

Mr. Buchan

I am aware that there is a number of short Bills that hon. Members opposite might help us to put through very quickly, but we cannot always solve complex problems in that way. We are investigating all the problems involved and will make a statement as soon as is opportune.

Mr. Lawson

Will my hon. Friend ensure that any rate relief to farmers is not passed on to the other ratepayers?

Mr. Buchan

This is a complex and in some ways controversial topic. All aspects will be taken into consideration.

Mr. Stodart

I have always admitted that this is a very complex problem. But does not the hon. Gentleman think that the time has now come for a decision one way or another? Is he anxious to see the anomalies just go on increasing, or does he desire to restore the position to what the 1958 Act intended it to be? Can he assure us that at any rate we shall not necessarily be tied to a Bill about rating and valuation to decide something which is essentially an agricultural matter?

Mr. Buchan

Hon. Members should await the statement that we shall make on this topic.