RATES demands that have been sent to some charities in the Isle of Man are incorrect.

The Treasury has confirmed that some 2011-2010 rates have been issued without the reductions allowed due to their charitable status.

In accordance with the Rating and Valuation Act 1953, certain charities and religious groups are exempt from rates charged by local authority commissioners and burial authorities. However for rates demands recently issued, not all of these exemptions have been applied.

All affected charities will be contacted directly and incorrect rating demands will be cancelled and re-issued. Any overpayments made by charities will be refunded.

The Treasury has said that officers are committed to attaining high standards of accuracy and are investigating the circumstances in which this issue arose.

No individual property owner or business has been affected by this error.

Any charity rate payer who would like more information is asked to contact the rates section by telephoning 01624 685661.