David Ruffley MP published new research today showing how Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket and Needham Market's pensioners are suffering from higher council taxes. For a typical pensioner couple, one third of the increase in the basic state pension since 1997 has been snatched back in higher council taxes.

Whilst the basic state pension has risen by £1,248 since 1997, council taxes across England have soared by £413 on Band D bills in the same period.

David said, 'Local pensioners are the victim of a council tax grab. Labour's stealth taxes have hit some of the most vulnerable in society. Under Labour, a third of the rise in the state pension has been snatched back in soaring council taxes. Local pensioners who have worked hard all their lives deserve a fairer deal.'