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Explained in plain English

What is council tax?

Council tax is a local property tax paid by most households in England, Scotland, and Wales. It's a major source of funding for local councils, who then allocate a portion to local police forces. The story mentions restoring central funding for police leadership, which complements this local funding model.

Stories that explain this

Historic Edinburgh building on fire, Princes Street closed New review finds police leadership in England and Wales needs fundamental change

Questions this opens up

What do councils pay for? How is my council tax worked out? Who decides council tax rates? How is my house valued? What if I can't pay? Who gets council tax discount?

Related explainers

What are council tax bands? How do local councils get money? What is 'central funding'? What are central government grants? What is a Chief Constable? Who closes roads for safety? Who conducts police reviews? Who decides police budgets?

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