Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to footnote 2 of her Department's Guidance on the implementation of the council tax premiums on long-term empty homes and second homes, published on 1 November 2024, what steps she plans to take to prevent local authorities from disregarding the requirement to advertise in at least one newspaper circulating in its area.

The government’s published guidance clearly set out the responsibilities of councils when making a determination to charge a council tax premium. The time limited exceptions to council tax premiums can be applied in succession where the dwelling is eligible.