Newcastle City Council and their parking charges stealth tax.

Deputy Lib Dem leader, Councillor David Faulkner thinks it is “reasonable” to increase parking charges in Newcastle by 50% and to additionally begin charging people for parking in the evening. That's all right then isn't it? That's his version of democracy and consent. I for one will never vote for any Councillor who wants to take more money from me without asking me first.

There is no justification whatsoever for any increases. It is of no benefit at all to me (or you I suspect) and will make my life worse than before. And the idea of taking away our right to relax in the evenings without traffic wardens and fees is beyond contempt. Why anyone votes for people who increase their taxes and diminish their enjoyment is beyond me!

Is it going to make us happier? No. Is it going to make us poorer? Yes. Therefore it is a bad thing.

It's been a long time since the last price rise. Poor things. I don't care if there has not been any increase since 1978 never mind 2008. Everyone knows and the government's own figures show that parking charge profits are NOT increased to fund improvements to parking facilities. They are revenue raising tactics - taxes by the back door - stealth taxes.And when was the last time you could put up your wages without someone showing you the door? And of course this will be just the start. Newcastle already has some of the highest parking charges in the country.

Please don't vote for the Lib Dems or any party which wants to do the same thing. Write or email your councillor and tell him or her that you don't want more fees and penalties in your life (does anyone?) and that you will vote for someone else at the next Council election. Please vote for someone else if he or she does not do what you want. (NO I am not affiliated to any interest group! My interest group is the interest and enjoyment of Newcastle's Citizens). Council list is here - http://www.newcastle.gov.uk/co.....s?openform