Second-home owners who ‘pretend’ to let their properties out to holidaymakers face a tax crackdown from Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove.

It has been reported that  Mr Gove is threatening to hit them with new bills which could run to over £1,000 a year, to stop them abusing a tax loophole.

His officials say the crackdown will benefit destinations including the Lake District, Devon and Cornwall by encouraging tourism.

Under current rules, second-home owners in England can avoid paying council tax by saying they intend to let their properties out to other holidaymakers and so qualify as small businesses.