§ Mr. Edenasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what further action he proposes to take concerning the burden placed by the operation of the rating system on householders in those areas largely inhabited by people with fixed incomes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Hockingasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and 188W Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is aware of the hardship which revaluation, coupled with rising local expenditure, is causing in areas where many people are living on small fixed incomes; and what action he now proposes to take in the matter.
§ Sir Richard Pilkingtonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he will make a special inquiry into the incidence of rate revaluation in those places where the increase has been particularly high.
§ Sir K. JosephThe Secretary of State for Scotland and I propose to set up a small committee to establish the impact of rates on different sections of the community and different income groups. The committee would not be asked to make recommendations. The purpose of the inquiry would be simply to find the facts on the basis of which the Government could determine whether any changes were needed. My right hon. Friend and I will consult with the representatives of local authorities before announcing the precise terms of reference or the composition of the committee.