§ Mr. Wadeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs, whether he will ask the inter-departmental inquiry which is examining the rating system to propose a solution to the problem which arises from the fact that water rates are based on the total rateable value of a 35W property, which may include a garage, even though that garage contains no water supply.
§ Mr. CorfieldNo. Water rates are not rates as such but charges for water which for convenience are based upon rateable values. The system of charging for water was recently reviewed by a subcommittee of the Central' Advisory Water Committee and my right hon. Friend hopes soon to make a statement on its report.