Rebecca Evans MS, Minister for Finance and Local Government
Today I am publishing a six-week technical consultation on the draft Valuation for Rating (Wales) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2021.
The regulations are designed to prevent non-domestic rating appeals that cite a Material Change of Circumstances to a property as a result of Covid-19 trading conditions and restrictions. On 7 July 2021, I announced plans to legislate in this area and, subject to timings, these regulations will apply prior to the Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Bill becoming law.
As set out in my previous statement, such appeals would lead to significant amounts of taxpayer support going to businesses which have been able to operate normally throughout the pandemic and to businesses which have benefitted from the additional rates relief we have provided. The Welsh Government will continue to review the package of support for communities and businesses as part of our budget and spending plans.
This consultation will run for six weeks and close on 27 September 2021. It asks for views of a technical nature regarding the drafting of the legislation and for any other comments about the regulations. Following the consultation, the Welsh Government will make any necessary technical changes and aims to make the regulations in the autumn.
The consultation is available at: https://gov.wales/draft-valuation-rating-wales-coronavirus-regulations-2021
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.