Healey: I'm Giving You A Fair Grant - So Keep Council Tax Low

摘要

For millions of people, 2009 will be the year of worry about their job, home, pay packet and savings. They will, rightly, look to their local council for real help with better services and low council tax. Local government is facing its own pressures in the economic downturn. Like central government, it predicts less income, some higher costs and extra demand for services. Like the public, I expect councils to provide the services people need and to keep a tight rein on their council tax. And, with greater funding and financial freedoms, I expect councils to manage their way through this period. I have announced a 4.2% rise in money for councils next year, and I confirmed the final figures to Parliament this week, part of the first-ever three-year grant settlement which also removes many of the strings on funding so that councils have the stability to plan ahead and the scope to manage their budgets to meet local priorities.