Welsh tax plans to build momentum in 2019

28 Feb 2019 11:38 AM

Finance Minister, Rebecca Evans yesterday announced the Welsh Government’s Tax Policy Work Plan for 2019.

This year's plan focuses on developing our approach to taxation in Wales – exploring the scope for continued improvement to tax administration, while further strengthening the links between tax and policy areas, and ensuring taxes remain fair throughout this process.

Some of the highlights of the 2019 work plan are:

• Developing tax policy – we will develop our proposals to build the Welsh tax base, while continuing to make the case for devolution of air passenger duty to Wales, taking forward our consideration of land and property taxation, and continuing to work with the UK government on disposable taxes and other environmental taxes. We will also explore further the funding options for social care in the future, progress our plans to devolve powers for a vacant land tax to Wales, and develop our thinking on a tourism tax.
• Building a coordinated approach to tax policy – ensuring Welsh taxes are working effectively is a key priority in 2019. Following the successful introduction of land transaction tax and landfill disposals tax last year, and with Welsh rates of income tax going live on 6 April, we will continue to work closely with the Welsh Revenue Authority and HMRC. As part of our coordinated approach we will also consider options for developing information resources, including data sharing and analysis to strengthen the evidence base for tax policy decisions and improved tax administration in Wales.
• Engaging, communicating and capacity building – continuing to build on our open and transparent tax policy making process remains a key priority. We will develop a long-term plan to build capacity on tax policy and administration, and work with the UK and other devolved governments to share best practice and address common challenges. We want to help Welsh taxpayers understand our approach to taxation and be clear how their taxes are supporting public services in Wales.

Minister for Finance and Trefnydd yesterday said:

“Our annual tax policy work plan is an important part of the communication process, building on what we have achieved and learned so far and identifying areas we want to explore further.

“I am committed to ensuring our tax policy is developed in an open and transparent manner and this plan is an invitation to anyone who wishes to contribute to our thinking, and help shape Welsh tax policy.”

The Welsh Government’s tax policy is being developed in line with the principles set out in our Tax Policy Framework. A report summarising the main findings will be published alongside the draft Budget in the autumn.

Tax policy work plan 2019