The government has today confirmed that Councils may, for the forthcoming financial year, increase Council Tax levels by up to 4% without the need for a local referendum.

2% of any rise will be used to improve care facilities for the elderly.

The government has also indicated that it will agree a 4 year budget with any local authorities who wish to implement long term financial planning.

The implications for York of the provisional  local government finance settlement announced today are still being worked out.

NB. Councillors in York have tonight agreed to implement a significant increase in their pay levels