HC Deb 27 April 1988 vol 132 cc186-7W
21. Mr. Darling

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received concerning the impact of the community charge on people on low incomes in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lang

My right hon. and learned Friend has received a number of representations from Members of Parliament, other individuals and various organisations. Those on lower incomes will be protected by the rebate scheme, which will take account of ability to pay.

31. Mr. Steel

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received on the cost of introducing the community charge to the Borders region.

Mr. Lang

There have been no recent representations about the cost of introducing the community charge in the Borders.

37. Mr. Canavan

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement about progress in compiling registers for the poll tax.

Mr. Lang

Compilation of the community charges registers is a matter for community charges registration officers, who from 1 April were empowered to undertake inquiries for this purpose of responsible persons at each address, and who are required to prepare the community charges register by 1 October.

44. Mr. Douglas

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the numbers seeking exemption from the payment of the poll tax as a result of the revision of forms currently being issued by the local registrars.

Mr. Lang

Exemption from liability to pay the personal community charge in Scotland arises from the provisions of the Abolition of Domestic Rates Etc. (Scotland) Act 1987 and not from any revisions that might be made to forms issued by community charges registration officers.

45. Sir Russell Johnston

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received on the cost of introducing the community charge in the Highland region.

Mr. Lang

The total additional capital allocation which I have given Highland regional council in respect of the implementation of the community charge in 1987–88 and 1988–89 is adequate to meet the council's requirements. I am considering a letter from the council about the way in which the allocations are split between these years.

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