§ Mr. STANTONasked the, Prime Minister if he is aware that the increased burden of local rates means ruin to many citizens throughout this country; that irresponsible persons of Bolshevik instinct have captured positions on local councils and are using their positions for political purposes; and will he therefore consider the appointment of a committee of inquiry and investigation to go into this matter at once?
§ Dr. ADDISONI have been making inquiries in regard to the increase in rates, and as I have previously stated, I propose to lay before the House a paper containing detailed information on the subject. I am aware of certain cases where we have been able to check serious extravagances so far as our powers enable us to do so. With regard to the suggestion in the second part of the question, the most effectual remedy is that the electors should take a keen and intelligent interest in the affairs of local government, and not be satisfied, as they often have been, for local councils to be elected by the votes of only a small fraction of the electorate.
Major BARNESasked the Minister of Health if any representations have been made to him by assessment committees on the effect of recent legislation and administrative acts of the Government on the incidence of rating; if these representations have been brought to the notice of the Treasury; and, if not, will he inform the Treasury of their nature?
§ Dr. ADDISONAs my hon. Friend is aware, deputations from the National76W Conference of Assessment Committees were seen by officers of my Department and of the Ministry of Transport last July, upon questions relating to the assessment of railways and of houses, and I issued a circular to Assessment Committees on this matter on the 16th September last. The Treasury have been informed of the action that has been taken.