§ Mr. Spenceasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will introduce legislation to ensure that the property of charities, old people's homes and similiar institutions continue to enjoy freedom from local authority rates to an extent no less favorably than in years prior to 1974–75; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. OakesI do not think further legislation is necessary. Registered charities will continue to enjoy the mandatory relief conferred by Section 40 of the General Rate Act 1967. That section also confers on rating authorities a discretion to grant relief to related bodies such as old people's homes, and these authorities can make such resolutions regarding charitable relief as appear to them appropriate.