Wealthy asked to pay ‘guilt tax’

WEALTHY residents in one of the UK’s richest boroughs will be asked to pay a voluntary ‘tax’ to help the homeless, the young and the lonely.

Westminster Council will ask those living in the area’s most expensive properties for an extra contribution on top of council tax to help fund local projects.

In a consultation more than 400 people said they would be happy to pay.

Council tax rates in the borough, which are among the lowest in the country, have been frozen, but letters will be sent to homeowners in the highest bracket asking for an extra £833.

Council leader Nickie Aiken said the scheme – which some have dubbed a ‘guilt tax’ – was developed after wealthy residents said they wanted to pay more.

‘ The outcome of our consultation reflects the kind and generous spirit of Westminster residents,’ she said.