MP Harriett Baldwin today welcomed a fresh look at council tax charging announced by the Government this week. Communities Secretary Eric Pickles announced the overhaul yesterday (October 31). The news followed an exchange in the House of Commons between Harriett and the Secretary of State praising Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils for protecting front line services whilst freezing council tax bills. The consultation will look at placing more power in the hands of local councils including removing council tax relief on second homes and placing a veto power in residents hands’ to prevent excessive council tax rises. Harriett commented: “I was pleased the Secretary of State was able to join me in praising the efforts of the staff and councillors at Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils. “Through their amazing efforts they have been able to protect front line services while keeping council tax bills frozen. “The reforms now proposed by the Department are an important next step towards making council tax work better in our community. “Over the last decade and a half, council tax has risen by 140 per cent in Worcestershire for a band D property. “One of the reforms proposed could see a reduction for these properties by £20. This like many other measures, will be welcomed by local people and I look forward to hearing their contributions to this consultation.”