Second Home Ownership 2020-07-20
2020-07-20
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Q1
Direct Answer
Tim Farron
ID: 11923
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Context
Second home ownership is a contentious issue, particularly in areas reliant on tourism. It affects local economies, housing availability, and community services.
What recent assessment has been made of the effect of trends in second home ownership on local communities? Excessive second home ownership robs communities of life, schools, and other services. Why are people in the south Lakes appalled at a £15,000 stamp duty bonus for second home owners? With 3 million hard-working people excluded from Government support, are these priorities justified?
Second home owners contribute significantly to local economies, especially in tourist-dependent regions. In 2013, we removed council tax discounts for second homes; now, 95% of the 253,000 second home dwellings have full council tax applied. We strive to balance economic needs with those of local residents and believe our measures are correct during this epidemic.
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