Written question asked by Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Labour) on Friday, 19 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 (named day). It was answered by Alison McGovern (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

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Council Tax: Second Homes

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he plans to issue further guidance to local authorities on the use of discretionary powers to provide relief from council tax premiums for second properties which have been inherited in cases of (a) demonstrable financial hardship or (b) properties that have been for sale for over 12-months.

Answer

The government’s guidance sets out a range of factors which councils should consider in implementing council tax premiums and whether to provide further discretionary exceptions or other support. It is for councils to assess where further support is appropriate.

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Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

11431

Session

2026-27

Subjects

Council tax Local government Powers Second homes

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk