Rates relief promised, now Government must deliver

The Taxpayers’ Union is welcoming the Government’s inclusion of rate caps in today's Q4 Action Plan, but warns that talk is not enough. Every month of delay means higher rates and more pressure on households already struggling with the cost of living.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson, Tory Relf, said:

“Rates have risen an average of 34 percent over the last three years. Families are tightening their belts while councils keep spending like there’s no tomorrow. Ratepayers are not bottomless cash machines for local government waste.”

“The Government deserves credit for recognising the problem, but it must act sooner rather than later. Councils are working on next year’s budgets right now. If legislation isn’t introduced and passed soon, households will be hit with another round of unaffordable rate hikes.”

“The time for consultation and reviews is over. Ratepayers need action, not promises. We’ll keep the pressure on until rate caps are written into law - and we’ll hold the Government to account every step of the way.”