Lib Dems float council tax discount idea for flood victims

10.43.59am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 23rd Aug 2007

Lib Dems are asking for tax rebates to help victimes of the recent flooding

Liberal Democrat Finance spokesperson Councillor David Rendel has today revealed he has written to Council Leader Graham Jones calling for a council tax discount for those households recently affected by flooding in West Berkshire.

Councillor Rendel explained:

"This move follows in the steps of councils such as Hull City Council which is giving flood victims a 25% discount on their tax bills. I hope that the Conservatives will give some serious thought to this idea, as it will give some much-needed financial relief to those who really need it. The clean up process still has a long way to go and the most effective way to help now is financially, allowing people to rebuild their homes and lives."

Liberal Democrat wards in Thatcham were badly affected by the floods and many properties remain uninhabitable.