§ Mr. HERRIOTTSasked the Secretary for Mines the amount of money received by mineral royalty owners in the County of Durham, between the years 1914 and 1923, for coal royalties, and the numbers of such persons; and whether, since local rates are not paid on these royalties, he will introduce legislation to compel royalty owners to contribute to the local rates?
§ Lieut.-Colonel LANE-FOXInformation is not available in regard to royalties in Durham prior to July, 1917. The total amount paid during the period 1st July, 1917, to 30th April, 1923, is approximately £5,458,000. From the 1st April, 1921, the rental value of freehold minerals worked by the proprietor is included. As regards the last part of the question. I understand from my right hon. Friend the Minister for Health that rates in England at present are in respect of beneficial occupation, and not ownership, are levied on occupiers and not on owners, and that no alteration of the general law in its application to the rating of coal royalties is in contemplation.