§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his assessment of the cost of granting mandatory rate relief to voluntary sports clubs in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [8006]
§ Mr. ChisholmRate relief provided to qualifying sports clubs in Scotland is entirely at the discretion of local authorities. Although detailed information on reliefs provided by local authorities to sports clubs is not held centrally, total discretionary relief provided in 1995–96 amounted to £4.4 million.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what Government proposals exist to harmonise rate relief for voluntary sports clubs in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [8005]
§ Mr. ChisholmRate relief provided to qualifying sports clubs in Scotland is already harmonised. Non-profit-making sports clubs in Scotland are eligible for mandatory relief. If relief is granted 100 per cent. of the cost is borne by the Exchequer.