HC Deb 27 February 1978 vol 945 cc104-5W
Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland in the light of the very substantial increases which householders in certain areas are facing in consequence of revaluation within the regional authorities, if he will take steps, by means of a transitional scheme, to ensure that no Scottish householder is required to pay more than a 10 per cent. increase in rates.

Mr. Millan

Following discussions with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities and with its agreement I decided not to introduce any transitional scheme.

Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the average increase in rateable value for householders, commercial premises and industrial premises in each rating authority; and what has been the largest and smallest increase in each category in each rating authority, respectively.

Mr. Milian

The estimated average increases in rateable value for all classes of property in each local authority area were given in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow, Pollok (Mr. White) on 18th November 1977.—[Vol. 939, c.425–8.] Information on particular properties and areas is available from the valuation rolls which are open to public inspection.

Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had from industry about the increase in its rating burden; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Millan

I have had three letters, including one from the Scottish Chairman of the Confederation of British Industry. In the light of the estimated distribution of the rate burden, published last November, I decided that there should be a substantial reduction in the preferential rating position of domestic ratepayers through the domestic element and that industrial derating should be maintained at 50 per cent.