§ 39. Mr. Hirstasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has so far received in response to the Government's Green Paper on rating reform.
§ Mr. AncramWell in excess of 100 representations have already been received from individuals and organisations. The Green Paper "Paying for Local Government" (Cmnd. 9714) invited comment by a closing date of 31 July 1986 and I look forward to receiving detailed responses as soon as possible from a wide range of Scottish interests.
§ Mr. Pollockasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of the National Federation of Self-Employed to discuss current proposals for reform of the rating system in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RifkindI met representatives of the National Federation of Self-Employed and Small Businesses Ltd. on Friday 14 March. Discussion covered the proposals for the future of non-domestic rates set out in the Green Paper "Paying for Local Government" (Cmnd. 9714). I explained to the federation representatives that our immediate proposals offered stability in the rate burdens of business ratepayers in Scotland and that in the longer term our business ratepayers need not fear the impact overall of a uniform rate poundage throughout Great Britain for non-domestic property.