To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government which were the groups described as representing ratepayers who expect significant rises in their rate bills and who are pressing for a five-year scheme on page 15 of the document NNDR Transitional Arrangements: Consultation, published by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in August 2004; and if he will make a statement. [Official Report, 16 July 2009, Vol. 496, c. 5MC.] (278453)

A full list of those consulted is at Annex B to the Consultation document published in August 2004. A total of 66 responses were received. 41 responded in favour of a four-year transitional scheme. Nine respondents favoured a five-year transitional scheme. These are as follows:

British Chamber of Commerce;

Broadland District Council;

Drax Power Station;

(The) Energy Network;

GVA Grimley;

North Norfolk District Council;

Rating Surveyors Association;

South Holland District Council;

Wychavon District Council.