PENSIONERS in West Devon are being urged to make a protest against the increasing council tax charges by supporting a group who are lobbying the government over their present method of raising money. John and Mo Brown of Chillaton are involved in the Is It Fair group, who have so far managed to get a petition questioning the fairness of the council tax to the European Commission. Mr Brown said he joined the non-governmental organisation when he saw that his pension was not covering the increases in the cost of living. ?I realised I had less money to spend than I had five years ago. You have to put money aside for health care and heating when you get older.? Is It Fair members are passed the details of those who are summoned to court due to failure to pay their tax and are encouraged to support them by sending emails to the treasurers and leaders of the councils. The group also organises marches and protest meetings and all over the country individual members have withheld part of their council tax ? and in some cases have gone to prison. Mr Brown said he did not go as far as withholding his payment for fear of the bailiffs taking his assets ? but felt the government should make changes to their policy such as raising the starting level for assistance and considering the person?s age. The basic state pension in the UK of £77.45 a week is 16.75% of the average adult weekly full-time earnings of £460. However in Spain and France the pension is 50 % of average earnings, in Germany 65% and in Italy 83%. Is It Fair say that, taking this into consideration, the council tax charges are ?the last straw.? A national day of protest was due to take place yesterday, Wednesday, when members planned to protest at council offices and town halls across the country. Local pensioners can find out more by contacting the Devon Pensioners? Action Forum on 01297 32747 or Is It Fair on 01428 712680 or by visiting http://www.isitfair.co.uk">www.isitfair.co.uk
