Defence Secretary John Healey has revealed he underpaid approximately £1,500 in council tax on his Central London residence, attributing the shortfall to an administrative mistake by Westminster City Council.
The Council's Admission of Fault
Westminster Council has publicly acknowledged its error, confirming it issued an incorrect tax notice for the property Mr Healey rents. The local authority has apologised for the oversight, which occurred when processing the minister's council tax registration.
The discrepancy arose from the second home council tax surcharge introduced in April, which should have increased Mr Healey's annual council tax bill to around £3,000. However, due to the council's failure to properly classify the property, he was only charged half this amount.
Timeline of Discovery and Resolution
According to reports from The Telegraph, the Defence Secretary became aware of the underpayment when approached about the matter on Thursday. He promptly rectified the situation by paying the full amount owed, including the second homes surcharge.
A spokesperson for Mr Healey emphasised that the minister had "fulfilled all his obligations" by correctly declaring the flat as a second home on the relevant paperwork when he began his tenancy. The spokesperson stated that Mr Healey had paid the original notice issued to him "in good faith."
Context for MPs and Financial Implications
The situation highlights the financial arrangements available to MPs representing constituencies outside London, who can claim expenses for the cost of renting a second property in the capital. This includes council tax and other related costs.
Mr Healey, who serves as MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough in South Yorkshire, is entitled to such arrangements. A source close to the Cabinet minister confirmed he had acted properly throughout the process.
Westminster City Council released a statement confirming: "The Secretary of State filled in the form correctly and registered the address as a second home. There was an oversight by the council and we did not register it as a second home. This led to an incorrect council tax notice being issued. We apologise for the error."
The matter has now been fully resolved with all outstanding payments completed.
