§ Mr. Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what effect the community charge proposals will have on the provisions of the Rating (Disabled Persons) Act 1978.
§ Mr. HowardUnder the domestic rating system, rateable values are increased to take account of extensions and alterations to property. Rate relief is granted to disabled people to ensure that they do not have to pay higher bills as a result of modifications needed to their homes as a result of their disability. A similar provision will not be needed with the community charge, because improvements to people's homes will not affect the level of the charge.
Disabled relief will continue in respect on non-domestic hereditaments.