REPORT SAYS THAT SUSSEX TAXPAYERS GET A RAW DEAL

The report, called 'Taken For Granted', was unveiled last week at an event in Gatwick.

Researchers found that the South East Counties' nine million residents paid 18 billion in taxes in 2005/06. The figure was double London's contribution and the largest regional contribution to the national Exchequer.

However, the report says that, without more investment, the South East's key role within the UK economy could be damaged.

Researchers, who put Government taxation policies and expenditure under the microscope, also say that the high cost of living in the region is not being 'fairly and fully recognised'.

In terms of support for key local council services, they say that Government grants in the South East work out at 338 per head of population compared to the English average of 506. The highest figure is in London on 782 per head.

"This is a ground breaking report that backs up what local authorities across the region have been saying for a long time '“ the south-east is bailing out many other regions but getting a raw deal in return," said Councillor Henry Smith, Leader of West Sussex County Council.

For full story see West Sussex Gazette October 17