HC Deb 21 April 1970 vol 800 cc230-1
22. Mr. John Page

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will now take steps to provide that central heating systems should be treated by valuation officers in assessing the rateable value of properties in the same way as fireplaces.

Mr. Diamond

The same principle, namely the effect of the installation on rental value, already applies in both cases.

Mr. Page

Since different types of flooring and electrical lighting are not taken into consideration, why should different types of heating be taken into consideration? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a lot of people are very angry about this?

Mr. Diamond

What is taken into consideration, and what always has been taken into consideration, is everything that affects the rental value of the house. That has always been the case and it continues to be the case.

Mr. Brooks

Would my right hon. Friend bear in mind that there is, in the North-West at least, a great shortage of smokeless fuel with a real danger that smokeless zones will not be implemented? Is it not quite wrong that at a time like this we should be fining a householder who installs central heating?

Mr. Diamond

There is no question of fining a householder. My hon. Friend will recognise that if he is in the market for a house and is offered two identical houses, one with central heating and the other without, he will be prepared to pay more for the one with central heating.