COLCHESTER ADVANTAGE CARD

Early day motion 794, tabled 16 February 1998 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 2 members.

That this House congratulates Colchester Borough Council's head of Local Taxation, Mr Norman Boutell, for pioneering the Colchester Advantage Card scheme which has led to 74 per cent. of residents paying their council tax by direct debit, the highest in the country; notes that annually this saves the borough in excess of ú100,000 in the collection of the council tax while providing participating residents with discounts offered by more than 500 shops and businesses; further notes that Colchester Borough Council is this year likely to receive ú200,000 in licensing fees from other authorities who now use the Colchester Advantage Card concept; and invites more authorities to follow this example of best practice.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 2.