§ Mr. Andrew WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list all the organisations and individuals who have responded to the 1989 consultation document on the transitional arrangements for non-domestic rating; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 26 April 1989]: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment issued a consultation paper on 15 February setting out the Government's proposals for transitional arrangements to introduce gradually in England and Wales the changes resulting from the revaluation and introduction of the uniform business rate in 1990. We have made it clear that although the magnitude of the changes will he less in Scotland in 1990, Scottish business ratepayers will benefit from the same level of protection against any significant increases in rates bills. The detailed arrangements for implementing this phasing will be the subject of consultations later this year.