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PHONE-IN
The biggest council tax increases in 20 years have been confirmed by five local authorities across Scotland as a nationwide freeze comes to an end. North Lanarkshire and Scottish Borders councils voted for 10% increases, Fife went for 8.2% and councillors in Edinburgh backed an 8% hike. In Glasgow, the largest council, the ruling SNP group, agreed a 7.5% rise with support from the Greens, with some of that ring-fenced for more street cleaning. Local authorities claim higher local taxes are necessary, despite a more generous Scottish government settlement, because of many years of restricted funding.

Council body Cosla said a combination of previous freezes, inflation and higher costs such as national insurance contributions meant councils were having to make 'difficult decisions'.
Resources spokesperson Katie Hagmann said: 'Council tax is one of the few options councils have to raise money to invest in local improvements such as roads; community halls and leisure centres; and public transport.'

With council taxes set to rise across Scotland, Stephen asks are you happy to pay more for better services?

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