Mr. J. Enoch Powellasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he proposes to take in view of the fact that no institutions in the Province have yet claimed rate relief in respect of use of premises by disabled persons or invalids.
§ Mr. John PattenThe majority of institutions providing premises used by disabled persons or invalids68W are owned by public bodies and do not attract rate relief. Some private sector institutions providing these services are exempt from rates by virtue of their status as charities. I propose to have the position reviewed to ensure that any relevant institutions which are not claiming the relief are aware that they may be entitled to do so.
Mr. J. Enoch Powellasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he takes steps to ensure that the full available rate relief is secured on Housing Executive hereditaments designed or modified for, or known to be occupied by, invalids or disabled persons and on hereditaments in other ownership in respect of which grants are paid for improvements or modifications to assist disabled residents.
§ Mr. John PattenSteps have already been taken to inform occupiers of hereditaments of the type to which the right hon. Member refers about the rate relief which is available. The matter is, however, being kept under review to see whether any further steps are necessary.