| answer text |
<p> </p><p><em>[Holding Reply: Monday 7 April 2014]</em></p><p>We do not collect this
information centrally. These are local schemes, and it is for local authorities to
ensure that the effect on specific groups of council tax payers is proportionate and
fair.</p><p>Spending on council tax benefit doubled under the last Government, costing
taxpayers £4 billion a year – equivalent to almost £180 a year per household. Welfare
reform is vital to tackle the budget deficit left by the last Administration. Our
reforms to localise council tax support now give councils stronger incentives to support
local firms, cut fraud, promote local enterprise and get people into work. We are
ending the last Administration's ‘something for nothing' culture and making work pay.</p><p>
</p><p> </p>
|
 |
