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Last Updated: Wednesday, 5 May, 2004, 12:07 GMT 13:07 UK
Pensioners to meet MPs' committee
Albert Venison
Mr Venison will meet the committee on Tuesday
Devon pensioners have won the chance to put their case against the council tax direct to MPs in Westminster.

On Tuesday Albert Venison from the Devon Pensioners' Action Forum will join two other council tax protestors to meet a Commons committee of MPs.

The committee is investigating options to replace the tax.

Mr Venison said he welcomed the chance to answer MPs' questions and tell them why pensioners think the tax is unfair to those on low and fixed incomes.

'Change needed'

Mr Venison said: "We shall leave the members of the committee in no doubt as to what we feel is the solution.

"We need a change and we need it urgently."

More than 200 pensioners from the Devon Pensioners' Action Forum have only paid a 1.7% increase in their council tax bills - the equivalent of their pension rise.

The rise in Devon was nearly 18% last year, sparking calls by pensioners for a new tax based on ability to pay, not the value of a person's home.


SEE ALSO:
Tax rebel's anger at benefactor
09 Apr 04  |  Devon
Second homes tax windfall plans
08 Feb 04  |  Devon
Ex-magistrate in court protest
02 Feb 04  |  Devon


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