Darren Johnson has responded to the report that Camden Council plans to remove some council tax benefits currently enjoyed by owners of second and empty homes.

Darren Johnson commented:

"The 2011 census revealed that there are an astonishing 229,803 second homes in London, many of which will be owned by British residents. Put very crudely, that is seven times the mayor's annual house building target

Camden council looked at increasing council tax on empty second homes, but have found themselves isolated. The Mayor of London should recognise that empty second homes are an affront to Londoners struggling with high rents and lend Camden his support. There should be no council tax exemption for habitable homes left empty for more than a month and a 200% council tax rate on second homes left empty for more than six months."

ENDS

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