§ Mr. BreedTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions whom he plans to consult on his proposals to end the 50 per cent. Council Tax discount for second home owners; when the consultation will be completed; and on what date he estimates that local authorities will first be able to charge the full tax. [143260]
§ Ms Beverley HughesI refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew) on 12 December 2000,Official Report, column 76W. The usual period for Government consultations is 12 weeks.