Liverpool plans referendum on 10% council tax rise

Liverpool city council plans to ask residents to consider a council tax rise of up to 10% in order to maintain public services following government cuts. Liverpool's mayor, Joe Anderson, has warned that without this extra income all public services will face cuts, with adult social care and children's services hardest hit:

We are in an absolutely desperate situation and in order to protect our services for the people of Liverpool we will have to make some tough choices. We can’t manage the budget without serious cuts and serious consequences. It’s a daunting task. And that’s why I will be asking the question, whether people would support us, in a referendum.

The proposal follows the requirement that any increase above 3.99% – 2% of which is ringfenced for adult social care – must be put to a local referendum. If approved, the increase would come into effect from 2018.

• Liverpool plans referendum on 10% council tax rise (The Guardian)