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Archbishop and former Poll Tax minister calls for action During the Church of England debate on the ‘rain tax’, The Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, told the Synod, "This is a national problem that is going to need a national solution…...we are not going to give up..." He added: "Churches are not going to be treated as if they are businesses." Synod member, Robert Key MP and former Minister for the Poll Tax , said, “ I know a cock-up when I see one” Click below to hear the speeches. |
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Churches now face higher bills because the drainage charges are based on the total surface area of their roofs, which governs how much rainwater has to be drained away into sewers. Water companies say they are following the advice of Ofwat, which says charging for drainage is an "environmentally responsible" approach. It says the cost of providing surface water drainage in England and Wales is about £700m every year, and everyone needs to pay their share. But the policy has led to some not-for-profit groups paying considerably more than commercial buildings - like shops and factories. At times waving an umbrella during his speech, Mr Dales said the change meant larger churches would see their bills rise from £140 to £8,000 a year. Cathedrals, he said, would pay between £5,000 and £71,000 a year. " |
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Robert Key |
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Archbishop of York |
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