§ Sir Raymond PowellTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will introduce an automatic rate review for town centre shops whose trade is affected by out of town developments. [37024]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsRatepayers have the right to make a proposal to the valuation officer to alter the rateable value of their property if there has been a material change in circumstances which they believe affects the value of the property. Local authorities can also make proposals to take account of changes they believe to affect property values.
§ Sir Raymond PowellTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many out-of-town supermarkets have been given planning permission in Wales since 1 May 1997.[37031]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsThe information requested is not held centrally. However, during the period 1 May 1997 to 1 March 1998 my right hon. Friend received details of 18 retail applications comprising 9 calls in requests, 2 departure references, and 7 shopping direction referrals. Of these 1 case was called in for the Secretary of State's own determination.