To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the average business rates bill was in England in each year since 1996-97; and what it is expected to be in 2007-08. (141872)

The average business rates bill in England in 2007-08 is expected to be £10,817.

For details of previous years, I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 13 March 2007, Official Report, column 238W.