Commenting on the publication of the UK Government’s Localism Bill, which proposes greater powers for Welsh communities to veto excessive Council Tax rises, Jonathan Morgan AM, Shadow Minister for Local Government, said:
“Welsh Conservatives welcome these proposals to give Welsh communities greater control over the taxes they pay to local authorities.
“Council Tax in Wales has doubled over the past ten years of Labour-led Government, increasing the pressure on the household budgets of hardworking families and pensioners.
“At a time when families across Wales are tightening their belts, it is right that a local authority which wishes to raise Council Tax by an excessive amount should secure the permission of its residents through a referendum.
“After years of Labour-Plaid centralising power, these proposals devolve powers to communities, giving the people of Wales more of a say over how their local communities are run.
“Real devolution is not about shifting powers from Westminster to politicians in Cardiff Bay, but about empowering communities to make their own informed decisions.
“We also welcome the proposals to give AMs the ability to delay another Council Tax revaluation, which in 2005 saw many Council Tax bills soar, despite Labour claims it would be revenue-neutral.”
