There is always a challenge understanding the arguments when different people quote different figures. I will, therefore put up the two arguments about costs. These figures look only at the effect on the city council. That is about 88% of the total council tax bill. The rest goes to Police and Fire.
| Labour's figures | My figures | |
|---|---|---|
| 2012/3 government support | 88,231,598 | 88,231,598 |
| 2013/4 government support | (79,494,242) | (79,494,242) |
| Shortfall | 8,737,356 | 8,737,356 |
| Contingency | 882,316 | 0 |
| Requirement for 1.45% increase in Council Tax | 1,292,152 | 0 |
| Total to find | 10,911,823 | 8,737,356 |
| From Flexibilities | 5,437,977 | 6,012,692 |
| Government Grant | 0 | 2,129,441 |
| Final Shortfall | 5,473,847 | 595,223 |
The policy question is the one highlighted in my speech. Do you tax the poorest in society in order to find funds to support the council tax of the poorest or do you share the burden amongst people. (ie on the general fund).
I made the point in my speech that without any increase in council tax the council should expect an additional £1.4 million, but that the budget for 2013/4 for inflation is also high and could easily stretch to cover the missing support that results from an increase in council tax of 1.45% (much that there is an argument for taking the government money here as well).
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