Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:19 pm on 6 July 2022.
Okay, I'll try to conclude. I'll also be issuing that revised guidance that we've heard of in relation to the additional options that are available if self-catering properties restricted by planning permission conditions don't meet those thresholds. These options do include discretion to reduce or even remove the standard rate of council tax liability for certain properties where considered appropriate by the local authority—and it is for local authorities to decide whether to apply a premium and at what level to apply it. But we shouldn't assume that all local authorities will adopt the increased maximum council tax premium of 300 per cent that will be allowed from 1 April of next year. The powers have been available to increase it by 100 per cent since 2016, and only three local authorities are currently applying that maximum.
So, to conclude, as part of the co-operation agreement with Plaid Cymru, we're taking immediate action to address the impact of second homes and unaffordable housing in communities across Wales, using the planning, property and taxation systems. We do recognise that these are complex issues that require a multifaceted and integrated response, and changes to the local taxes alone won't provide the solution, which is why we're developing that package of interventions. As such, Dirprwy Lywydd, I would urge Members to vote against the motion today.