Pensioners hit with pest control charge

Lib Dem Leader Cllr David Kendall has slammed Tory proposals to introduce a £15.00 pest control charge for pensioners in domestic premises faced with rat problems.

They are also introducing a similar charge for residents on means tested benefit. The new charges were part of a package announced at the Housing & Health Panel will see many residents faced with now having to pay a pest control charge on rats when in the past the service has been free.

Cllr Kendall said

"In my view the Borough Council shouldn't be charging pensioners and people on means tested benefit to provide a pest control service for rats. Whilst I understand the Council has to balance it books, it also has an obligation to look out for the more vulnerable residents in our community. I know that £15.00 is a lot of money to many pensioners particularly when you consider what they get as a state pension.

"During the discussion I was very disappointed to hear Tory Cllr Baker say: "The days of a free lunch are gone". That will be cold comfort to those pensioners that now have to face this new charge".