§ Mr. LINFIELDasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in some parishes in rural districts rates have been increased by amounts varying between 6d. and 3s.6d. in the £ in order to meet 1018W the deficiencies caused by the rate allowances made to State-church clerical tithe-owners; and whether he will introduce legislation to deal with this matter?
Mr. GREENWOODMy right hon. Friend is aware that in some parishes the operation of the Ecclesiastical Tithe Rent Charge (Rates) Act, 1920, has involved as increase in the poundage of the local rates. The whole question of the rating of tithes will require reconsideration before 1926, but he does not think that it will be practicable to introduce legislation this Session.