§ Sir E. Graham-Littleasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the increasing burden upon ratepayers who remain in the consultant medical quarters of Marylebone after most of their colleagues have gone for full-time war service under the Ministry of Health, which has already entailed an increase of 10 per cent. in the rates on occupied houses, and as more houses will now soon be abandoned owing to that increase, he will consider the adoption of some means of relieving a situation due to war measures?
Mr. M. MacDonaldAlthough the increase in the rate poundage in the area mentioned is substantial, it does not involve a charge which is outside the range of rates levied by other authorities in normal times. I am not contemplating1364W action on the lines suggested by the hon. Member.
§ Captain Marsdenasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the local authorities are forcing landlords to pay rates on properties whose tenants, because of the war, cannot afford to pay their rent; and whether he will authorise local authorities to allow such landlords rebates in the rates in proportion to the concession in rent they allow to their tenants?
Mr. MacDonaldExisting statutory provisions enable reduction or remission of rates to be made where the financial circumstances of the person liable make this necessary. I have no authority to take the action suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend.