§ Mr. COMYNS-CARRasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in the five boroughs comprising Greater New York all site values are assessed to local taxation separately from the value of improvements; that, while buildings and improvements generally are also assessed to local taxation, buildings used for dwelling purposes only and erected since February, 1921, are exempt from the tax on improvements for ten years; and that since that date plans have been filed for the erection of dwellings to accommodate 344,693 families, or at the rate of 11,119 per month as against a rate of 1,668 per month during the three years before the exemption came into operation, or over 7½ times as many; and whether he is prepared to consider the adoption of a similar system in this country?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI am aware of the system in New York State to which reference is made by the hon. Member, and understand that, although it has stimulated construction, there is considerable doubt whether it has brought relief to the class of citizens whom it was sought to relieve, namely, the lower-paid worker. I am not prepared to recommend the adoption of a similar system in this country.