6. Motion to annul the Non-Domestic Rating (Amendment of Definition of Domestic Property) (Wales) Order 2022

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:13 pm on 6 July 2022.

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Photo of Rebecca Evans Rebecca Evans Labour 4:13, 6 July 2022

Diolch, Dirprwy Lywydd. I welcome the opportunity to respond to the motion today. 

On 2 March, more than 12 months before the changes take practical effect, I announced the outcome of our consultation on local taxes for second homes and self-catering accommodation. Since then, I've answered questions from Members in the Chamber and elsewhere, I've responded to an opposition debate on the subject of today's motion, and I've also had discussions with stakeholders. Throughout this period I've been clear about the Welsh Government's decisions, and about the timing of changes. I've explained the reasons behind our decision to increase the letting thresholds for self-catering accommodation to be classified as non-domestic for local taxation purposes. Our approach will ensure that the properties concerned are classed as non-domestic only if they're occupied for business purposes for the majority of the year, and if they're let on a less frequent basis, they will be liable for council tax. This is about property owners making a fair contribution to the communities where they have homes or run businesses. Self-catering operators—[Interruption.] Yes, I will.