John Baron MP welcomes plans to freeze council tax for local residents

10 October 2008

Hard-pressed local residents across Basildon District could benefit from lower council tax under Conservative plans. Taxpayers in Scotland benefited from a council tax freeze this year, thanks to a deal struck between Scottish local authorities and the Scottish Executive. But those living south the border were not so lucky.  The new Conservative proposal involves a partnership with local councils, giving them extra support to deliver a council tax freeze in the first two years of a Conservative Government.

John said:

“During the last 10 years, because of poor government funding Council Tax has more than doubled for Basildon District residents. At a time when household budgets are being squeezed, we must do all we can to help which is why I very much welcome these proposals to freeze Council Tax for at least two years.  This could save a typical household over £200.”

“The money will come from slashing the government’s massive spending on public sector consultants and advertising.  It is ludicrous that Labour is the second biggest advertiser in Britain, spending five times more than Tesco’s.  This money would be far better in the pockets of hard pressed residents at a time when food and energy bills are going through the roof.”