Overview

The Non-Domestic Rating (Lists) Bill adjusts the deadlines for compiling non-domestic rating lists in England and Wales. This affects the frequency and timing of updates to the lists used for determining business property taxes.

Description

This bill amends the Local Government Finance Act 1988 (LGFA 1988). Key changes include:

• Compilation of Rating Lists: Alters the dates for compiling both local and central non-domestic rating lists in England and Wales. The cycle for list compilation is changed from five years to three years, with the next list due on 1 April 2021.
• Deadlines: Modifies the deadline for submitting proposed lists to the billing authority (31 December instead of 30 September) and to the Secretary of State.
• Consequential Amendments: Makes various consequential amendments to the LGFA 1988 and the Non-Domestic Rating (Chargeable Amounts) (England) Regulations 2016 to align with the changed dates and list compilation cycle.
• Transitional Provisions: Addresses the transition to the new three-year cycle, adjusting definitions of relevant periods in the LGFA 1988.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The changes primarily affect administrative processes and timelines for updating rating lists, rather than altering the overall level of tax revenue.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Businesses in England and Wales: The changes in the frequency of rating list updates will affect how often their business rates are reassessed.
• Local Authorities in England and Wales: Responsible for administering the rating lists and collecting business rates, local authorities will need to adapt their processes to meet the new deadlines.
• Central Government: The updated legislation and amended regulations affect the administration and processes within central government departments responsible for overseeing business rates.

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