§ Mr. Leslie Huckfieldasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the effect of his policy by easing the burden of rate increases on those living in Nuneaton and Bedworth.
§ Mr. Graham PageI do not have information in sufficient detail to state the benefit obtained by those living in Nuneaton and Bedworth from the recent rate support grant settlement and the special help to those most affected by revaluation. The local authorities concerned should be able to provide the information.
§ Mr. Leslie Huckfieldasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement indicating the amount of rate increases in Nuneaton and Bedworth, indicating the reasons for this.
§ Mr. Graham PageI would refer the hon. Member to the local authorities concerned. They are responsible for fixing the rate poundages and they alone know all the reasons for any increases.
§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what procedure ratepayers in Retford and district should follow to claim allowances to offset the effects of rating revaluation according to Circular 34/73; and what percentage of domestic ratepayers he estimates will qualify.
§ Mr. Graham PageIt is unnecessary for ratepayers to claim relief of domestic rates in 1973–74 under the arrangements set out in Circular 34/73. The circular 289W has asked local authorities to take responsibility for calculating, notifying domestic ratepayers and paying the amount of relief due. Estimates of the numbers of domestic ratepayers qualifying for relief in accordance with Circular 34/73 are not available.