15 July 2016

Dear Colleagues

On 5 July 2016, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government, Mark Drakeford AM published a draft of the Land Transaction Tax and Anti-avoidance of Devolved Taxes (Wales) Bill and Explanatory Memorandum. http://gov.wales/funding/fiscal-reform/welsh-taxes/land-transaction-tax/?lang=en

The draft of the Bill allows interested stakeholders an opportunity to become familiar with a technical and complex Bill over the summer, prior to its formal introduction in the autumn term.

Subject to the introduction of the Bill as planned, and the subsequent referral of the Bill by the Business Committee to the Finance Committee (“the Committee”) for Stage 1 consideration, we will issue a call for evidence on the general principles of the Bill. I am taking this opportunity to give you advance notice of our intentions because it is likely the period for consultation will be limited to four weeks.

We may also hold a stakeholder event to help inform our work on the Bill. If you would be interested in attending, please let the Clerk to the Committee know:

Bethan Davies – 0300 200 6372 / SeneddFinance@Assembly.Wales

Further information on how a Bill proceeds through the Assembly can be accessed here: http://www.assemblywales.org/bus-home/bus-legislation/bus-legislation-guidance.htm

I hope you find this advance notice helpful. If you have any other queries, please do not hesitate to contact me or the Clerk.

The Committee would be grateful if you could forward a copy of this letter to any individuals or organisations that might like to contribute to the inquiry. A copy of this letter will be placed on the National Assembly’s website with an open invitation to submit views.

Yours faithfully

Simon Thomas AC / AM

Cadeirydd / Chair