HC Deb 26 March 1996 vol 274 c522W
Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will clarify the definition of(a) a village and (b) a shop for the purposes of the new initiative outlined by him in the White Paper, "A Working Countryside for Wales", for a new rate relief scheme targeted at village shops and post offices. [22197]

Mr. Hague

As the White Paper makes clear, I shall consult shortly on the detail of my proposals for this scheme.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the earliest date proposed for the coming into force of new provisions to relieve village shops and post offices in rural Wales from the burden of business rates; and if he will make a statement [22196]

Mr. Hague

The White Paper "A Working Countryside for Wales" proposes a rate relief scheme for village shops and post offices, details of which will be subject to public consultation shortly. Inclusion in the Government's future legislative programme will depend upon a number of factors, including the outcome of the consultation.