§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether, as a means of assisting in the emergency saving of fuel oil, he will institute a 705W campaign to promote coal-fired and gas central heating installations; and if, in support of such a campaign, he will take steps to ensure that the installation of such systems will not increase the rateable value of the houses where such installations are made.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe choice of heating systems in housing is primarily a question for the individual householder or owner, who will, I have no doubt, take due account of the matters referred to in the first part of the hon. Member's question. Under the provisions of section 21 of the Local Government Act 1974, the installation of a central heating system would not involve any change in rateable value until the next general revaluation for rating purposes. We see no case, however, for any more permanent departure from the normal rating principles for this particular form of improvement.