§ 7. Mrs. Jane KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received with regard to council tax being levied on prescribed dwellings by local authorities. [37834]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesSeveral, including one from the hon. Lady herself.
§ Mrs. KennedyDoes the Minister recall receiving representations from my constituent, Mr. Ronald Bender, after Anglesey council levied council tax at the full rate on his chalet, which he is allowed to use, by agreement, for only six weeks a year? Will he examine the extent to which Anglesey council is not giving discounts, even where appropriate, so that I can reassure my constituent that the regulations are being applied fairly?
§ Mr. JonesI assure the hon. Lady that I recall the correspondence that we exchanged about her constituent, Mr. Bender. I understand that Ynys Môn borough council has received counsel's opinion and, as a result, has refunded to the hon. Lady's constituent sums of money that go back to 1993. I trust that that is a satisfactory outcome. This is a responsibility for Ynys Môn and any other local authority in Wales, and I am sure that any further case will be considered carefully in the light of the outcome of Mr. Bender's case.