Madam,

re: Council tax surcharge

There is no justification whatsoever for second and empty homes to be charged additional council tax. Owners already pay full council tax and make next to no demand on council services. Pious statements regarding “bringing homes back into use” are disingenuous to say the least. The truth behind this discriminatory and unfair tax is that politicians (mistakenly) see a fat goose to be plucked that will not hiss too loudly and lose them few votes. The unedifying squabble reported over who should receive the spoils of this latest tax raid is typical of those addicted to spending other people’s money.

The report beneath the item tells us that the generous allowances now paid to councillors will be maintained regardless of cuts everywhere else. Enough said.

To those tempted to cheer from the sidelines I would say be careful what you wish for. If the Assembly ever gets tax setting powers then, with the current administration, there will be only one direction for taxes and that is up.

Yours etc

Name and address supplied.