AUSTERITY IS AN EXCUSE

# People across the country are facing a 6% hike in their council tax bills in April, with the same excuse being given – the Government’s austerity programme has led to cuts in council budgets.

Yet these same local authorities always seem to have the required funding to pay the fantastic salaries of civil police commissioners, while unwanted lord mayors and councillors are also on top pay.

All this should be looked into before already hardpressed families are left to pick up the tab. Neil Atherton, St Helens, Merseyside