§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) how many appeals have been lodged by caravan and camping park owners in Wales against the revaluation of their premises carried out by district valuation officers in Wales. [33713]
(2) how many representations he has received on the issue of revaluation of caravan and camping parks in Wales following the revaluation of business premises; [33714]
(3) if he will change the criteria adopted by valuation officers in Wales in determining rateable values of caravan and camping parks, so as to take more account of the profitability of businesses in the valuation process. [33715]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesSome 95 appeals had been lodged by 7 July 1995. My right hon. Friend and I have received 68 representations.
The criteria by which caravan sites are valued for business rates cover both England and Wales and are a matter for the Valuation Office agency. In the absence of appropriate rental evidence for properties such as caravan parks, the valuation method uses information which takes account of profitability. Discussions are taking place between the agency and representatives of the industry on revisions to the method used. I hope they will come to a mutually acceptable conclusion.