HC Deb 07 April 1975 vol 889 c338W
Mr. Penhaligon

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what estimate he has of the loss of rate revenue in Cornwall caused by the practice of giving domestic rate relief on properties used for summer lets.

Mr. Oakes

I have no information on which to base an estimate, but the rating authorities concerned may be able to assist the hon. Member. There is little, if any, overall loss to local authority revenues because the cost of domestic rate relief is, in principle, met by the domestic element of the rate support grant.

Mr. Penhaligon

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the operation of the rating system in so far as it gives domestic rate relief to properties used for the commercial purpose known as summer lets.

Mr. Oakes

I see no reason at present to alter the present statutory definition of hereditaments which qualify for domestic relief.