Liberal Democrats Battle To Axe The Tax

4.00.11pm GMT Mon 23rd Feb 2004

On Saturday February 21st, local Lib Dem Campaigners met outside Tescos in Richmond town centre to campaign for the abolition of the Council Tax.

Susan Kramer, Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Richmond Park in Richmond Town Centre campaigning against Council Tax

Susan Kramer, Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Richmond Park said: "Last year Richmond's Tory Council was responsible for the largest increase in Council Tax since 1983, and this year it is once again poised to retain the accolade of setting the highest Council Tax in London, despite holding reserves in excess of £30 million."

"On top of this we have also been hit with a 7.5% tax hike from Ken Livingstone, whose charge has doubled since coming to office. These rises are not only unnecessary but they are also irresponsible. This is because those hit hardest, namely pensioners and people on low incomes will be forced out of this area, breaking up local communities."

Jenny Tonge MP added: "The strength of feeling against Council Tax is rising at an inexorable rate and it is not difficult to see why. Nationally the poorest 10% pay over four times than the richest 10%, and as Council Tax bills continue to soar the situation can only get worse. The Lib Dems want to Axe the Council Tax, and replace it with a fairer local income tax based on ability to pay. On Saturday hundreds of leaflets were handed in Richmond urging people to support our campaign and anyone wishing to sign our petition should contact my office on 020 8332 7919 or sign the online petition at www.axethetax.org.uk"

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For more info contact Andrew Pilkington on 020 8940 2994