§ Dr. CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations he has had with sporting associations and local authorities relating to mandatory and discretionary relief from non-domestic rates to sports clubs; and what guidance he has issued.
§ Mr. RidleyMy Department is issuing today a consultation letter on the content of proposed regulations about the period for which discretionary rate relief may be granted and the notice which must be given if relief is varied or terminated. I am placing a copy of the letter in the Library.
Also the Department has discussed with the local authority associations and with the Sports Council what guidance should be given to local authorities on the use of their powers to grant discretionary relief. We plan to consult separately on this subject.