HC Deb 28 July 1964 vol 699 c246W
51. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what representations have been addressed to Her Majesty's Government from workmen's clubs on the subject of rate increases which are regarded as a burden on welfare institutions; and what relief will be provided through Government action in order to reduce the burden and enable workmen's clubs to continue their activities without financial strain.

Sir K. Joseph

My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has sent me three letters from working men's clubs in one town about their rates but I have no evidence of any general problem calling for relief. As the right hon. Gentleman knows, local authorities already have power to remit or reduce the rates payable by such clubs and I think it right that the decision should be taken locally in the light of local circumstances, including the effect on other ratepayers.