Libe Dem second homes tax defeated

Backbench Liberal Democrats wanted an additional premium to be added to council tax bills for all second homes, amid ongoing fears about the impact empty properties are having on local services and the countryside economy.

The motion was not passed, but the Government has moved forward with plans to allow councils to remove the 10 per cent council tax discount currently enjoyed by owners of second homes.

The Yorkshire Post revealed last month the discount is costing the region authorities millions of pounds in lost revenue.

Lib Dem Communities Minister Andrew Stunnell said his party would continue to push for further measures at the next election.

“For some rural areas, especially tourist-focused ones, a significant fraction of the housing stock may be occupied – or perhaps unoccupied – as second homes, which makes it very difficult for those who live and work in the area to secure accommodation,” he said.