MS, Cabinet Secretary for
Finance and Welsh Language: In 2020, the Welsh
Government consulted on
charitable non-domestic rates relief for private schools and
hospitals in Wales. Following the consultation, we confirmed that
we would give further consideration to the policy options and
consult further on any specific proposals for change.
Today, I am launching a consultation on the Welsh Government's
proposal to withdraw charitable non-domestic rates relief from
private schools, from 1 April 2025. In Wales, private schools are
registered as ‘independent schools'.
This proposal seeks to bring independent schools with charitable
status in line with other independent schools in Wales, for the
purposes of non-domestic rates. The aim is to make additional
funding available for local services in Wales, by withdrawing a
government funded tax reduction for private schools.
The Welsh Government's proposed approach to this matter is
complemented by the UK Government's plans to remove the existing
exemption from VAT (which is not devolved) from private schools
across the UK and to remove charitable relief from private
schools in England. The Scottish Government has already removed
charitable relief from private schools.
The consultation sets out the Welsh Government's proposal and
asks for views. It will run for 12 weeks from 23 September
and responses are requested by 16 December 2024. I look forward
to considering all contributions on this important matter.
The consultation is available at:https://www.gov.wales/charitable-non-domestic-rates-relief-private-schools
