§ Mrs. Colquhounasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will initiate a review of the rating system with a view to proposing fundamental changes in its basis.
§ Mr. John SilkinI shall be reviewing the system, but if my hon. Friend has any particular changes in mind I hope she will write to me so that I can consider them.
§ Mr. Lomasasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will consider introducing legislation to abolish the present system of rating and to replace this by a form of local income tax; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John SilkinI am always open to suggestions which may improve the rating system. If my hon. Friend will suggest what detailed improvements might be made I shall of course consider them.