Jacks of all Trades,

The issue of council tax is one that the Scottish Parliament plans to discuss. The SNP have put forward the idea of an income-based tax to replace council tax. The Liberal Democrats also believe in an income-based tax but their ideas on who should regulate the rate of tax differ from the SNP (local council or central government). Labour and the Conservatives support the council tax, but say they'd make it cheaper for pensioners.

I reckon it's a tricky issue. In the income-based system, the rich would pay the most tax. The logic consists of the fact that they can afford to. I'm not sure people should be penalised for being successful but at the same time, they ought to feel proud to give back to the people (they ought to feel aggrieved if this money is wasted).

From observations of my own street, I think I would support the council tax. I don't believe that people who make an effort to find employment and work hard for their families should subsidise layabouts and benefit cheats. The council tax is a fair system as long as the council delivers value for money; everyone pays the same and they all should have access to a quality service.

It's an issue for an economist.