Sadiq Khan, the Labour Mayor of London, has faced criticism for his plans to increase council tax, with opponents accusing him of treating Londoners like walking ATMs. Khan announced an 8.6% rise in the "precept" added to bills to fund City Hall services. The increase is said to be necessary to provide urgent funding for police and public services due to the government's failure to adequately fund the Metropolitan Police Service, Transport for London, and the London Fire Brigade.
Tory Mayoral Candidate Slams Khan's Tax Increase
Tory mayoral candidate Susan Hall has strongly criticized Sadiq Khan for "raising his council tax by over 70% since he was elected." She accused him of wasting money on spin doctors and PR stunts while burdening Londoners with increased taxes. Hall also highlighted Khan's previous implementation of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which she claims disproportionately affects low earners.
Financial Implications for London Households
Under Khan's budget proposals for the next financial year, the council tax increase would amount to £37.26 per year for average Band D properties in 2024-25. This means that typical households would pay over £471 to the Greater London Authority, nearly £200 more than when Khan first took office as Mayor of London in 2016.
Khan Justifies Tax Hike
Sadiq Khan defended his proposal, stating that he did not want to increase council tax but had no viable alternative due to the government's refusal to provide sufficient support for London's essential public services. He emphasized the need for urgent funding, particularly for the police, and stated that he had to utilize all available resources to address the situation.
Criticism from Tory MP
Tory MP Nickie Aiken echoed the criticism, blaming Khan's mismanagement for the need for such a significant tax increase. Aiken argued that Khan should take responsibility for the state of the services under his control and recognize his unsuitability for the role of Mayor. Aiken emphasized that Londoners deserve better.
Background on Band D Council Tax
In London, Band D households are often used as the benchmark for measuring and comparing council tax rates. When Khan first became Mayor, the Greater London Authority Band D precept was £276.
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