HC Deb 13 May 1985 vol 79 cc25-6W
Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his policy, in the context of the review of arrangements for financing local government services, as to the contribution to be made by the agricultural industry towards the cost of local government; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

Those in the agricultural industry contribute towards the cost of local government services as taxpayers through central Government grants. as ratepayers through rates on agricultural dwellings and as users through fees and charges. Agricultural land and buildings have been fully derated since 1929 and I have no plans to change that position.