Lib Dems call for fairer funding in local government

9.00.00am GMT Sat 11th Nov 2006

Lib Dems are campaigning nationally to axe the unfair council tax

Following the publication of 'Meeting the Challenges Ahead' by the Local Government Association (LGA), Cllr Tony Woods, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Northampton Borough Council has said:

"The LGA have raised important points on the funding of local government.

"The crisis stems from the government's funding regime that raises 75% of local government funds centrally. However, the funding has not risen in line with necessary expenditure. In particular, the government has ignored the fact that the Growth Agenda they have instigated is causing a huge increase in Northampton's population. Council tax payers have been picking up the tab for too long.

Cllr Richard Church, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Northamptonshire County Council added:

"Until the government axes the unfair council tax and allows councils to raise fair funds locally, based on the ability to pay, communities will continue to suffer.

"If people needing care are not to suffer, the government need to listen hard to what the LGA are saying."

To find out more about Lib Dem policy on local government go to: www.libdems.org.uk/community