asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government, in view of the fact that valuation officers are not to re-assess property for local authorities till 1956, what advice he has given to local authorities as to re-assessing properties for themselves in the meantime.

I have given no advice officially; but I would deprecate any such action by local authorities in advance of the re-valuation.

Would the right hon. Gentleman issue a statement to the Press, or by other means let the local authorities know their duty and the citizens their obligations? Because some of this is going on and causes much dissatisfaction.

Yes, Sir, but I have to tread very carefully because I have no powers except those of advice.