§ Mr. Frank Field:To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what powers, in addition to existing age specific means-tested concessions on council tax, local or billing authorities have to offer discretionary council tax concessions to those over the age of 75. [143992]
§ Mr. Raynsford:The Local Government Act 2003 provides a power for local billing authorities to offer a locally defined council tax discount if they wish on an individual basis, or for a class of council tax payer. This new power came into force on 18 November 2003. More generally local authorities may also be able to use their "well being" power under section 2 of the Local Government Act 2000. It is for local authorities to decide how they use such discretionary powers.
§ Mr. Ben Chapman:To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on council tax bands for properties built after 1991. [143637]
§ Mr. Raynsford:For property built after 1991, council tax valuations are based on an estimate of the price the property would have fetched if it had existed and been sold on 1 April 1991.
746W
§ Mr. Ben Chapman:To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what advice his Department gives to local councils on the banding for council tax purposes of homes built after 1991. [143638]
§ Mr. Raynsford:The Valuation Office Agency is responsible for the banding of homes for council tax purposes. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister therefore gives no advice to local councils on this matter.