Sunak Criticizes Councils for Excessive Tax Hikes Amid Funding Crisis

The Prime Minister urges restraint in council tax increases, highlighting the government's refusal to allow Somerset a 10% rise.

Rishi Sunak criticizes local councils for proposing steep council tax increases, emphasizing the need to manage the cost of living.
Government denies Somerset's request for a 10% council tax hike, while allowing others like Birmingham due to bankruptcy declarations.
Councils face criticism for spending on 'equality, diversity and inclusion' initiatives amid requests for higher taxes.
Local authority leaders argue the government's underfunding is to blame for the need to raise council taxes.
The ongoing national crisis in local authority funding prompts warnings of an 'out of control' financial crisis affecting essential services.