§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what changes he is considering in connection with the council tax system; and when he expects to make an announcement.
§ Mr. BaldryMy Department is presently consulting the local authority associations about regulations to give an effect to the scheme of transitional reductions for 1994–95 announced by my right hon. Friend on 2 December, and about some minor changes to the Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992. I have sent copies of the consultation letters to the hon. Member and I am arranging for copies to be placed in the Library of the House. A number of suggestions have also been put to us for small changes to the secondary legislation covering council tax exemptions and discounts, and we are considering these.
§ Mr. PickthallTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to help the severely mentally impaired living in the community with their council tax.
§ Mr. BaldrySeverely mentally impaired people are not counted towards the personal element of the council tax.
125WA household entirely composed of such people is therefore eligible for a 50 per cent. discount from their council tax bill. This liability may be partly or wholly rebated by council tax benefit, depending on the household's circumstances.
We have received a number of representations in favour of further assistance for this group. We are considering these representations. I will write to the hon. Member when a decision is reached.