Your views on the News

Each week we will publish the best posts and tweets from our followers. To pick up all the latest news, debate and issues affecting EK like us on facebook and follow us on twitter.

Council tax hike plans

Tory MSP Graham Simpson was one of two MSPs to vote against plans to raise council taxes next year saying the increase in bills in the top four bands was an attack on local accountability. The majority of News readers were outraged by the proposals.

Lorraine Kelly posted: “So I pay higher yet my services are no better than someone in the lower bracket? Much the same then as I pay for private therapy for my daughter for speech because the mere 20mins a week from NHS isn’t enough, however if I claim benefits my daughter would get additional therapy, fantastic – keep screwing us that work hard, we genuinely climbed the ladder and worked hard to line your pockets.”

Karen Woodrow wrote: “It’s working class people that are being hit by the increases which would have harsh effects on family life – less food to pay the increase of tax. The costs should be spread equally across all bands in my opinion it’s fairer for all concerned.”

Jim McMillan said: “Scandalous prices when you stay in a high band area. Funny how your services don’t improve with the cost.”

But Gordon Anderson wrote: “Good about time these people paid more.”

Engine fine proposals

South Lanarkshire Council plan to fine drivers who leave their engine running after The Whirlies Roundabout was identified as one of the most polluted sites in Scotland.

Eddie O’Neill said: “Taxi drivers take note...”

Taxi driver Jim Reed posted: “Maybe the council should fix the roads that need repaired and we won’t have to slow down and then speed up again due to potholes .”

Jim McMillan added: “Catalytic converters don’t work until they heat up so idling a new car isn’t all bad as starting a cold car.”

Liz Macsween wrote: “Hope they [the council] start with their own vehicles...”

Treasury taken to task

There was fury this week over the lack of assessment of the impact the closure of EK tax offices would have on the town.

James Gillespie said: “More jobs to be lost in East Kilbride. Another empty building coming up. Once more voices of our political and local representatives being quiet!”

Martin McLennan wrote: “It’s like 30 minutes travel. And they have seven years’ notice to get another job if they can’t go. People need to stop crying about it.”