HC Deb 12 March 1969 vol 779 cc1369-70
34. Mr. Brewis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received regarding the extension of agricultural de-rating to intensive livestock houses; and what reply he has sent.

Mr. Buchan

The Scottish National Farmers' Union and the Scottish Landowners' Federation have asked me to consider introducing legislation to de-rate intensive livestock buildings. In addition several hon. Members have written to me on this subject and two individuals have made direct representations. In all cases replies have been given to the effect that the matter is under consideration.

Mr. Brewis

Is it the case that the Government are not going to do anything about this until the question of local authority rating has been considered in general?

Mr. Buchan

We are considering this, and when we have come to conclusions we shall say so.

Mr. Stodart

Can the hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that this matter is receiving urgent attention? I see the Secretary of State nodding assent. May we therefore have an assurance that the deliberations will take a shorter time than those on the Hunter Report?

Mr. Buchan

As Shakespeare said, comparisons are odious, but we are giving the matter urgent consideration. As the hon. Gentleman knows, the Minister for Planning and Land, the Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and myself, met the three unions not long ago to discuss this.

Mr. Manuel

Before my hon. Friend proceeds any further with the derating of any more agricultural buildings, will he ensure that none of the buildings so derated is sub-let by owners for other purposes?

Mr. Buchan

I am looking at every aspect of this very complex problem.

Mr. Brewis

May I raise the same point of order as that raised by my hon. Friend the Member for Fife, East (Sir J. Gilmour) on Question No. 30?