Our views on the Local Government Finance (Wales) Bill

The Bevan Foundation has submitted evidence to the Senedd on the Local Government Finance (Wales) Bill

The Welsh Government is legislating to change arrangements in respect of Council Tax and the non-domestic rates.  A bill was introduced to the Senedd in November 2023, and the Local Government and Housing Committee was asked to scrutinise it.  The Committee sought views of stakeholders and the general public, and the Bevan Foundation was pleased to respond.  

The Bevan Foundation’s response expressed disappointment that the Bill did not propose more radical reform.  Nevertheless, it welcomed the establishment of legislation specific to Wales rather than relying on laws that pre-dated devolution.  The biggest concern about the draft Bill was that it proposed to make significant changes to taxation via secondary legislation, which would severely curtail scrutiny and debate. 

Update

The Foundation’s concern about the use of secondary legislation was reflected in the Local Government and Housing Committee’s report.  The Bill, with some amendments, was passed by the Senedd on 16th July 2024. 

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