UK - COUNCIL 'SORRY' FOR TAX DEMAND ERROR

BY MEL ATKINSON

10:30 - 11 March 2002 Thousands of people across Leicester are set to receive the wrong council tax bills today.

Leicester City Council said the problem was caused by continuing computer problems with its housing benefit system.

Council officers say the problems mean people on benefits could be charged the full amount of Council Tax instead of having a discount showing on their bill.

They are calling on people not to panic and to contact them if they have any concerns.

Council officers said about 5,000 people could be affected out of the 110,000 households to receive council tax bills.

Today, the council's latest tax bills should start arriving at 110,000 households - and each will contain a letter urging people to get in touch if they are on benefits and should not be paying the full amount.

People on housing benefit can also obtain council tax benefit of up to 100 per cent.

Chief finance officer Mark Noble said: "Because of the problems caused by the change of housing benefits computer systems, we know that a lot of people will get bills for an incorrect amount.

"We are asking people not to worry. We will put matters right as soon as we can and no-one will have to pay more than they ought to."

Dave Pate, principal assistant housing director, said: "The problems with the housing benefit system has gone on longer than we expected and once again I would like to apologise to our customers and thank them for their patience."

Sharon Whitmore, a wheelchair-bound mum-of-three who lives off Saffron Lane, is now up to date with her housing benefit after a three-month wait.

She said: "It was very distressing. The council tax problem is going to spread the stress for people. I feel sorry for people. When you have not got that money you think 'God, it is £300' and you have not go it."

People are advised to contact the council on 0116 299 3900 and make an arrangement to pay a lower amount. They can pay the full amount now if they wish and get a refund later. http://www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=42635&command=displayContent&sourceNode=42634&contentPK=1234826

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002