Influential study backs local income tax

The influential Chartered Institute of Public Finance today told a committee chaired by Local Government Minister, Nick Raynsford that local income tax could be a 'realistic option'. This confirms the Liberal Democrat policy to replace the unfair council tax with a local income tax.

Speaking after the announcement Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson, Mike Treleaven, welcomed the news saying:

'This is an independent assessment that confirms Liberal Democrat plans to introduce local income tax as a fair and workable alternative to council tax. CIPFA even confirms that the old arguments against the tax no longer hold water because income tax collection and payroll procedures have become computerised and it much easier to operate change.'

He continued:

' Throughout the Totnes constituency people are fed up with the council tax and the unfair burden it imposes. Bills are about to go out for next year with lower increases than last year, but still unacceptably high, particularly for pensioners and low wage earners. When will the Government and the Conservative party accept that council tax has had its day and should be replaced with a local income tax that is fair and based on the ability to pay? We have had people queuing up to sign our petition against the tax, which will be presented to Downing Street on March 16th. Everyone is fed up to the back teeth with this tax, which must be replaced.'