§ Mr. CollinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) what proposals he has to grant local authorities discretion to vary the level of council tax imposed upon the owners of second homes; [42996]
(2) if his review of the council tax system has included the issue of varying the level of council tax imposed upon the owners of second homes from the present mandatory 50 per cent; and if he will make a statement; [42997]
(3) what representations he has received from (a) South Lakeland District Council, (b) South Lakeland residents and (c) others on the subject of the level of council tax imposed per owner of second homes. [42995]
§ Ms ArmstrongThe consultation paper "Improving local financial accountability" invited views on whether there is a case for change to the council tax. We have received a number of representations about discounts given on second homes including from the South Lakeland District Council and from other local bodies, and individuals. Our proposals will be set out in a White paper which we shall publish in the summer.