§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to start publication of council tax property valuations so that appeals can begin; and what pattern publication will follow.
§ Mr. Robin SquireValuation lists for all billing authorities will be compiled at 1 April 1993 and will be deposited at the billing authority's principal office for public inspection, as well as being available at the local valuation office. Taxpayers who wish to appeal will be able to do so after 1 April 1993.
The first council tax bills will include a notification of the band of the property. Occupiers of those properties which are exempt from the tax and who therefore would not receive a bill will be sent a separate notification of the band of the property.
Draft lists will be provided to billing authorities between 15 November and 1 December 1992 and will also be available for public inspection.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what proportion of homes have been valued by estate agents for the new council tax; when the operation will be completed; what is his estimate of the total cost; and how much of this cost will be borne by central Government.
§ Mr. Robin SquireThe Valuation Office Agency have contracted private sector valuers to assist them with the valuation of 57 per cent. of homes in England. The contracts required the work to be completed by 31 May 1992. The cost of the contracts in England is under £18 million, entirely borne by central Government.