§ Mr. Mark RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what guidance has been issued to valuation officers when assessing the rateable values of premises occupied by voluntary sports clubs and recreational charities; and if she will make a statement. [18276]
§ Mr. SproatFollowing consultations with the National Playing Field Society and the Central Council for Physical Recreation, the Valuation Office agency has issued additional guidance to valuation officers about the rating of premises occupied by voluntary sports clubs and recreational charities. This further guidance has been agreed with the representative bodies I have mentioned, and gives advice on a number of rating valuation aspects including ability to pay and lottery funding. In addition, it should assist with the speedier settlement of any appeals by occupiers of the type of property in question.
My hon. Friend the Member for Erewash (Mrs. Knight) is the Treasury Minister responsible for the Valuation Office agenda and she, like me, welcomes this useful step which in some circumstances should be of benefit to voluntary sports clubs and recreational charities.