War veterans in council tax boost

Elderly war veterans in Glasgow are to pay less council tax in recognition of their service to the country.

The move will be worth about £400,000 to about 500 families who will qualify for lower bills and higher benefits.

The city council made the announcement on Friday as ex-servicemen and woman gathered in George Square to mark National Veterans' Day.

Around 500 people turned out for the day of music and entertainment, with many awarded special lapel badges.

The council plans to disregard all income from war pensions when calculating council tax and housing benefit.

"These men and women who risk their lives for our country deserve greater recognition for their work, and, sadly, in some cases for their sacrifices"
Councillor Bob Winter
Glasgow Lord Provost

Part of the costs will fall on the Department for Work and Pensions, with the remaining sum being met by the council. Lord Provost, Bob Winter, who served in the Royal Army Pay Corps during his National Service, said: "I want to make sure that the council and the people of Glasgow pay due respect to military personnel and their families.

"These men and women who risk their lives for our country deserve greater recognition for their work, and, sadly, in some cases for their sacrifices.

"Changing our policy on council tax benefit is a relatively small gesture by the council that could have a big impact financially on hundreds of war pensioners and their families."

National Veterans' Day was launched in 2006 to mark their contribution to society and raise awareness of the issues affecting them.

Other Veterans Day events are being held in Aberdeen, Inverness and Kelso.

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