§ Mr. BellinghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he proposes to consult on the details of the proposed rate relief scheme for village shops; and if he will make a statement. [28842]
§ Mr. GummerI have today published a consultation paper setting out proposals for a new rate relief scheme for village shops. As foreshadowed in the White Paper, "Rural England: A Nation Committed to a Living Countryside", the proposals will help certain small general stores and post offices in rural villages. They mean that such businesses will see a reduction of at least 50 per cent. in their rates bills. Local authorities will be able to top this up to 100 per cent. and, in addition, will be able to grant relief to other rural shops and businesses which are of benefit to the community.
These proposals will provide significant help to small general stores and post offices, which are a feature of village life and which provide an invaluable service to local people who do not have cars or ready access to public transport. They will also give local authorities wide discretion to reduce the rates bills of other rural businesses, thereby helping to safeguard rural communities and preserve the fabric of village life.