Prison sentence for refusal to pay council tax

Gary Brazil of Lapwing Lane, Didsbury, was last week sentenced to 90 days in prison for wilful refusal to pay the council tax he owed.

Since moving into his flat at Waterloo Court in June 2000, he had paid only £90, leaving an outstanding bill of £6,258 in arrears plus owing Manchester City Council £785 for the current year.

Councillor Bernard Priest, Manchester City Council's executive member for finance, said: "Mr Brazil has deliberately avoided his responsibility to pay council tax for more than seven years, but has continued to enjoy the services provided by Manchester City Council.

"We are pleased that the magistrates decided upon a custodial sentence. This case had been adjourned a number of times to allow him to make satisfactory payment arrangements, but even then he only ever made two payments.

"For the council to take this action is a last resort, and I hope that this sends out a clear message that people who deliberately avoid paying their council tax, face not only the possibility of bailiffs or bankruptcy, but even a prison sentence.

"Council tax is paid by everyone to provide the vital services that keep the city running. It is not acceptable that some people should make a deliberate choice not to contribute."

Anyone who is struggling to pay their council tax should contact the council tax service as soon as possible to make arrangements. Independent advice is also available from Manchester Advice on 0161 234 5600 or the Citizen's Advice Bureau. Check the telephone directory for details of your nearest CAB.

Media contacts:

Deborah Grace/Rebecca Kennedy Press Office, tel: 0161 234 3332