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Demand notes for rates and/or Government rent for the quarter from October 1 to December 31, 1998 have been issued.

A spokesman for the Rating and Valuation Department (RVD) reminded payers to settle the rates and/or Government rent on or before October 31.

He said a five per cent surcharge would be imposed if this demand was settled after the due date.

"However, as a result of the Rates Rebate Scheme announced by the Government, the refund of rates paid for the April quarter has been reflected in the October quarter demand, by offsetting the rates under refund against the rates due," the spokesman explained.

"But they still have to pay the Government rent for the current quarter, if it is included in the same demand note," he noted.

Also on the Rates Rebate, if there has been a change of ratepayer since April this year, the refund of the rates paid for the April quarter will not be reflected and the rates demand for the October quarter must be settled by the due date.

He also reminded those concerned ratepayers to inform the department of such changes as soon as possible if they had not done so.

"The refund of the April quarter rates will be arranged when relevant details have been supplied to and verified by the department," the spokesman said.

Enquiries on the payment method and the rates rebate can be made on telephone 2881 1033 or by fax 2577 6066. They may also inquire in person at the Accounting and Billing Division of the RVD at Hennessy Centre, 23rd floor, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.

End/Friday, October 9, 1998

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