LOCAL BODIES.

Press, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20510, 1 April 1932, Page 11

LOCAL BODIES.

; _ « INCD3ENCE OF RATING. NO INVESTIGATION AT PRESENT* [From Oua Paruahxhta&t Refobxxb.} WELLINGTON, Mareh SI." An indication was given by the Bt. Hon. G. W. Forbes this evening that there is little chance of a Commission for the investigation of local body finance, which was promised by the Prime Minister in his financial policy statement on February 14th, 1931, being set up for some time, if at all . Mr Forbes said some time ago that the question of appointing a Local Body Commission would be considered as soon as the appointment of the National Expenditure Commission had been made. However, although, there is a widespread belief that the time is overdue for a complete enquiry into local body finances and the incidence of rating, it is most unlikely that any move will be made to investigate the position at least until the Expenditure Commission has presented its final report at the beginning of May. Mr Forbes mentioned, when approached this evening, that the appointment of Commissions was apparently out of favour with the country at the present time. He admitted, however, that the question of local body finances was of considerable importance and that the burden of rates was proving a serious handicap to many who were suffering from the effects of-the depression. The Government would be considering certain" aspects of local body rating, such as the giving of power to the authorities to remit the 10 per cent, penalty on unpaid rates, but he said lie could not see much hope of a Commission being at least in the meantime. It is understood that tho Minister for Internal Affairs may handle this question personally after the session.