Government to Pay Rates On Military Property

Manawatu Times, Volume 68, Issue 57, 9 March 1943, Page 4

Government to Pay Rates On Military Property

Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, Mar. 8. Tho Municipal Association of New Zealand states that during the last year of so the extension of activities of the Army in New Zealand has resulted in the taking over of a great deal of property which had iireviously been bearing its share of local body rates. By reason of the prerogative of tho Crown it has been exempt from all except special rates affecting the land prior to its acquisition by the Crown. In the case of some local bodies the

amount of Joss of rates has run into a very substantial figure. It is very welcome to local bodies generally’, therefore, to learn that the Government has now agreed to pay the full rates on all properties occupied temporarily during the war period by tho Army, Navy and Air Departments whether taken under the powers contained in the Emergency Regulations or by agreement, witli tho owner. The Government has agreed to assume this responsibility for tho rating year 1942/43 and for subsequent years. The Departments concerned have been notified with a request that payment be made as soon as practicable. This action of the Government in recognising the due claims of local bodies is greatly appreciated by the Municipal Association.