§ Sir T. DAVIESasked the Minister of Health what is the estimated loss to local rates during 1926–27 caused by the deduction of 75 per cent. of the net annual value of agricultural land, as set forth in Part II of the Second Schedule of the Rating and Valuation Bill; and how much of this deficit will be paid by the National Exchequer?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe 75 per cent. deduction from the net annual value of agricultural land will not operate until the first new valuation lists under the Rating and Valuation Bill come into force, nor will the amount of the loss to local rates arising under the provisions of the Agricultural Rates Acts be affected thereby. The Rating and Valuation Bill does not deal with any question of grants in respect of such loss, which will continue to be governed by the provisions of the Agricultural Rates Acts.
§ Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWNasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of his proposals to abolish boards of guardians in his Poor Law Reform Bill, he will substitute some other body for them in the Rating and Valuation Bill now before this House so as to avoid confusion in future?
§ Sir K. WOODNo, Sir. That is a question which in my right hon. Friend's view must be left to be dealt with when it arises.