HC Deb 28 April 2004 vol 420 c1150W
Malcolm Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reasons her Department has undertaken a review of apparent disparities between the Valuation Office Agency's calculation method of business rates for BT in comparison with other telecom companies; when she will publish her Department's findings; whom is being consulted; and if she will make a statement. [167268]

Mr. Timms

The Government said last year, in response to represenations made by members of the telecommunications industry, that they would review the rating system as it applied to the industry to ensure that it is working fairly.

The Department has appointed a contractor to carry out the review. On completion of the review the Department will present the report to the Broadband Stakeholders Group (BSG), which is representative of the communications industry.

We expect initial findings in the summer and subject to progress, to produce a report in the autumn.

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