§ Mr. Edwin Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will give the amount of rates paid by the National Coal Board for the years 1950, 1960 and each of the past four years; and, in view of the effect of the present method of assessment of rating on the accounts of the National Coal Board, if he will consider changing the present rating system.
§ Mr. Guy BarnettMy Department has no record of the rates paid by individual ratepayers, and I suggest my hon. Friend asks the National Coal Board direct for the information he seeks in the first part of his Question. The rateable values of most of the Board's properties are at present determined by a formula prescribed in the National Coal Board (Valuation) Order 1963. My right hon. Friend is at present considering proposals for amending the formula.
§ Mr. Woodallasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what alterations he has considered in the rating or valuation on mining operations by the National Coal Board; what would be the financial implications of any such alteration; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Guy BarnettDetailed proposals for amending the current method of determining the rateable values of the mining and associated properties occupied by the National Coal Board were contained in a consultation document sent to the Board and the local authority associations on 20th December 1976, a copy of which is available in the Library. 215W My right hon. Friend is not yet ready to announce his decision.