Labour Leader Nancy Platts on the Chancellor’s Spending Review:

“At the start of the pandemic, the government told councils to do whatever it takes to combat the virus – and we were promised full compensation.

“This is what we were hoping would be included in the Chancellor’s spending review. Unfortunately, the government has not delivered…

“…Coronavirus has cost local councils more than £11 billion this year and the government has refunded less than half that.

“This spending review has done nothing to fundamentally change the fact that councils will be forced to make severe cuts in 2021 to balance their books.

“Instead of supporting local taxpayers, the spending review has dropped a £1 billion council tax bombshell on them – the only major tax rise announced.

“The government expects us to increase council tax bills by 5 per cent next year when many are struggling to hold on to their jobs and cover their rent, bills and basic living costs…”

To read Councillor Platts’ full article, visit Brighton & Hove News: https://www.brightonandhovenews.org/2020/12/06/chancellors-response-to-coronavirus-is-a-bitter-pill-for-council-tax-payers/ 

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