§ Mr. Higginsasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether the committee investigating the rating system will consider the suggestion that individuals should be given an allowance against Income Tax if the rates they pay exceed a certain percentage of their income.
§ Mr. CrossmanThe examination of local government finance, including the rating system, is being undertaken by the Government and not by a committee. I take note of the hon. Member's suggestion, and I have no doubt that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer will do so, too. It would, of course, do nothing to help ratepayers whose incomes are so low that they are not liable for Income Tax and who appear to be most in need of help.