§ Mr. Randallasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government, what is the latest number and value of rebates granted to Gateshead ratepayers under the Rating Act, 1966; how this compares with the rate relief granted under the Rating (Interim Relief) Act, 1964; whether the number and value of rebates granted under the Rating Act, 1966 indicates that not all eligible ratepayers are claiming the rebate; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SkeffingtonIn 1966–67, 1,666 rate rebates were granted in Gateshead for the first half-year and 1,839 for the second. The total amount of rebate for the year was£22,368. My right hon. Friend will be collecting and publishing figures for 1967–68 when the year has ended.
No relief has been granted in this area in any year under the 1964 Act.
The proportion of householders in Gateshead who got rebate in 1966–67 was slightly below the national average. I cannot estimate how many persons who were eligible failed to claim, but there is probably scope here, as elsewhere, for more effort within the local community to bring the scheme to the attention of all those who might benefit from it.