HC Deb 24 October 1994 vol 248 cc403-4W
Mr. Frank Field

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans the Government have to introduce transitional relief for authorities which will be adversely affected by the new rating list coming into effect on 1 April 1995.

Mr. Robert B. Jones

My Department issued a consultation paper on 3 October setting out proposals for transitional arrangements to phase in the effects of the 1995 revaluation. Copies have been placed in the Library. We expect to announce our decisions by the end of November. The arrangements would apply to local authorities, in respect of rate bills on the properties they occupy, in the same way as to other ratepayers.

pursuits rests with the Department for Education, from which the British Chess Federation receives some financial assistance.