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Tynwald approves 'toilet tax'

 

Tynwald has approved the so-called toilet tax – despite widespread public opposition and a petition containing 6,300 names.

 

In a debate lasting two hours, even Chief Minister Allan Bell said the £50 flat charge was unfair.

 

Those backing it said it was needed to fill a £2 million hole in the finances of the Water and Sewerage Authority before it’s merged with the MEA.

 

However, those against argued a flat fee didn’t take into account people’s ability to pay and many areas without a sewerage system were being asked to contribute as much as those that had one.

 

Tynwald approved the measure by an almost two-to-one majority, and it’ll now come into being in April.

 

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