Council tax up by another 15 per cent. How wonderful that part of it is going to top up the inflation-proof pensions of our overworked bureaucrats and other fat felines stoking the local government gravy train.

But why stop there? Why not a round-the-world fact-finding mission with a team of consultants to help them plan their early retirement?

Now that waste, venality and poor decision-making are being so regularly and richly rewarded in the high echelons of our society, citizens may feel increasingly tempted to follow the example of those up and down the country who are withholding this part of their council tax.

Why should we participate in this use of public funds which are intended for the benefit of all?

-Christopher W M Reed, Janice Martin, Simon Dalton, Sue Molica, St Leonards Gardens, Hove