HC Deb 01 March 1984 vol 55 c331W
Dr. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will provide estimated figures for 1983–84 of rate income forgone by land authorities in respect of (a) housing benefits, (b) mandatory charitable relief, (c) a maximum of 50 per cent. rates levied on void non-domestic hereditaments and (d) suspension of the power to levy rates on empty industrial properties.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

Estimated figures are as follows:

  1. a.£46 million*
  2. b.£148 million†
  3. c.£184 million†

It is proposed to introduce (d) from 1 April 1984, and the amount of rate income forgone has been taken into account in determining the amount and distribution of rate support grants for 1984–85.

* The net cost to local authorities of the rate rebate portion of housing benefits.

† On the basis of local authorities' returns of 1983–84 general rate poundages and rateable values.