§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware that, arising out of the Land Tribunal's decision in Durham, local authorities levy rates on spoil heaps at disused collieries that are being removed to provide motorway material and for other constructive purposes, with the result that opportunities to improve amenities and reclaim land are lost; and if he will introduce legislation to ensure that such removals will not be rate-borne.
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§ Mr. K. RobinsonMy right hon. Friend has no proposals for exempting from the normal liability to rates spoil heaps which are in beneficial occupation. However, if my hon. Friend has any evidence that opportunities for reclaiming such heaps are being lost on account of rating, I shall be pleased to consider it.