HC Deb 23 April 1969 vol 782 cc76-7W
54. Mr. James Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish figures showing the expected income from rates of each local authority in Scotland for the financial year 1969–70, and the proportion of that income that will be derived from agricultural buildings for the intensive rearing of livestock.

Mr. Buchan

No estimate is possible at present, not least because all rate pound-ages for 1969–70 will not have been fixed until October this year. Rates payable on intensive livestock buildings in Scotland during 1968–69 are estimated to amount to about £200,000, which is about 0.1 per cent. of all rate income.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland by what percentage the average domestic rates burden increased between 1964 and 1968.

Mr. Ross

Between 1963–64 and 196768 the average domestic rate burden rose by about 22 per cent.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plan he has for reforming the rating system; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ross

I have nothing to add to the Answer given to the hon. Member on 23rd October, 1968.—[Vol. 770, c.277–78.]