I move:—
That a supplementary sum not exceeding £4,300 be granted to defray the Charge which will come in course of payment during the year ending 31st March, 1949, for Rates and Contributions in lieu of Rates, etc., in respect of Government Property, and for Contributions towards Rates on Premises occupied by Representatives of External Governments.
Deputies will remember that property occupied by the State is legally immune from rates but what happens is that an ex gratia payment is made to the local authority, although it is not legally due. When the Estimate is made out, the calculation is ordinarily made up on the basis of the existing poundage. That was done this year. As the poundage has generally increased, we have to pay more to the local authorities in the way of rates set out in sub-head A. It is a matter that automatically occurs.