HC Deb 08 February 1988 vol 127 c13
17. Mr. Nicholas Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received concerning the community charge for caravan sites; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Grist

I have received a number of representations about the application of the standard charge to caravans in Wales. In the light of those representations I have decided that the maximum multiplier for caravans should be set at the same level in Wales as is proposed for England.

Mr. Bennett

Is my hon. Friend aware that that answer will bring great delight to caravan site owners in Wales, because it will bring them into line with owners in England? As this is the number one industry in Wales, will caravan park owners continue to receive a rebate for collecting money on behalf of local authorities?

Mr. Grist

It is proposed that they will have a charge that they can make.

Sir Raymond Gower

Is my hon. Friend aware that the general impact of the proposals will have a devastating effect on all caravan parks? Will he reconsider this matter, because many of the people concerned with the management of the caravan parks are extremely anxious?

Mr. Grist

I do not believe that my hon. Friend should be so evidently alarmed. The multiplier will be in the hands of the local authority, and if it believes that the tourist potential and importance of caravans in its area are as great as my hon. Friend makes out, it is quite free to levy a multiplier of zero if it so wishes.