§ Mr. PETOasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the fact that the Agricultural Rates Act, 1896, expires on 31st December next, and whether, in view of the detrimental effect of the present uncertainty with regard to this Act upon agricultural interests, due to its recent continuance for so short a period as nine months, His Majesty's Government can give an assurance that it is their intention to extend its operation for a further term of years?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe matter will, of course, be considered, but I am not prepared, at the moment, to give any assurance.