Lib Dems keep Council Tax pledge

12.00.00am GMT Tue 19th Dec 2006

The Liberal Democrats are honouring their pledge by proposing a Council Tax rise of no more than inflation (3.6% for 2007-08).

This proposed budget is now being seen by the opposition Parties to obtain their views before finalising the budget for public consultation. This year the consultation will be expanded so that the public will have even more opportunities to have their say. Local residents will be able to obtain information on the web ( www.milton-keynes.gov.uk ) through libraries and council offices and through adverts in local newspapers.

Lib Dem Council Leader, Cllr. Isobel McCall, said: "It has been very tough to keep the Council Tax down to inflation. On the one hand we have been able to keep the increase down through ruthless efficiency savings yet we have also been able to propose additional spending on services the public want to see improved. These include more community safety wardens and some more money to tackle "grot spots". Both crime and safety and waste were in the top 5 of residents' "priorities for improvement" in the recent Council Survey.

Isobel McCall continued: "Milton Keynes Council has still not received its fair due to cope with the existing, growing population. I am angry that the Government has taken away £6.5 million although we are one of the fastest growing areas in the Country. I have demanded a meeting with the Minister and am awaiting the appointment!

"It is heartbreaking not to be able to do all the things that local people need. Our residents should not be penalised for living in a Government growth area and I will be explaining this to the Minister".