Overview

This bill addresses two key areas: Firstly, it clarifies that matters attributable to the coronavirus pandemic should not be considered when determining non-domestic property rates. Secondly, it extends the grounds for disqualifying company directors to include those of companies dissolved without insolvency.

Description

Part 1: Non-Domestic Rating This section prevents factors directly or indirectly caused by the coronavirus pandemic from affecting decisions about non-domestic property rates. This includes things like business closures or reduced activity due to government restrictions. However, the bill clarifies that factors such as the physical state of a property or mineral extraction may still be considered.

Part 2 & 3: Directors Disqualification (Great Britain and Northern Ireland) This part amends existing legislation to allow for the disqualification of directors from companies that are dissolved without becoming insolvent, if their conduct as a director was deemed unfit. This extends the existing rules which currently only apply to directors of insolvent companies. The changes apply to conduct and dissolutions occurring before and after the bill's passage. Specific amendments are made to several sections of the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986 (Great Britain) and the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The changes primarily relate to legal frameworks and processes, with no major budgetary implications directly stated within the provided text.

Groups Affected

• Businesses: This bill could impact businesses by potentially leading to adjustments in their non-domestic rates.
• Company Directors: The bill expands the circumstances under which directors can be disqualified, potentially impacting a wider range of individuals.
• Local Authorities (England & Wales): They will be affected by the changes to non-domestic rating procedures.
• Government Departments (UK-wide): These departments involved in company regulation and insolvency proceedings are affected by the changes to the disqualification of directors.

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