§ Mr. EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary with regard to the council tax reduction scheme in Wales. [115594]
§ Mr. HansonMy right hon. Friend has regular discussions with the First Secretary covering a range of issues, including issues relating to local government finance.
Any council tax reduction scheme in Wales is a matter for the National Assembly. There is a scheme in operation this financial year 2000–2001 which has cost £17 million. The National Assembly is currently consulting on proposals for a new standard spending assessment formula and in the context of those proposals, a joint local government/National Assembly group is considering options for a transitional reduction scheme, should this be required in the next financial year.
§ Mr. EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary with regard to the increases in council tax in Wales in the current year. [115595]
830W
§ Mr. HansonMy right hon. Friend has regular discussions with the First Secretary covering a range of issues, including issues relating to local government finance. Increases in council tax are a matter for the local authorities themselves.