§ Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether his attention has been called to the fact that a reduction or remission of rates has already been refused for 103 sets of almshouses in England ; and whether, when further revising the rating laws, he will consider this matter with a view to ensuring rating exemption for such establishments.
§ Mr. SandysI have seen a newspaper report to this effect. Almshouses are protected against any increase in rates this year. What has presumably been refused is a reduction of this year's rates below the level of last year's. I have already undertaken to present the facts about the rating of charities and similar bodies to Parliament in due course so that it may be seen whether any further action needs to be taken.