RESIDENTS in North Yorkshire are being asked how much they are willing to pay for police and fire services in their council tax.

Julia Mulligan, North Yorkshire’s elected Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner is asking residents in the area how much they’re willing to pay in their council tax for North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

As she launches her annual precept consultation, Mrs Mulligan has criticised the government over plans to cut the amount that can be raised for the fire service. The proposals from government will leave a £200,000 hole in the budget of North Yorkshire’s fire service and gives fire a worse deal than most local councils in the county.

A survey begins on January 15 where Mrs Mulligan is asking taxpayers how much they are willing to spend and the conclusions will be taken into account when a proposal is put forward to the Police, Fire and Crime Panel next month. It will remain open until midnight on January 28.The survey can be completed at www.telljulia.info.

Mrs Mulligan said: “I was hugely disappointed by the Government’s decision to limit my ability to support North Yorkshire’s Fire and Rescue Service. Given our challenging financial circumstances, it is an unwelcome blow given the hard work that has been done over the past year to balance our budget.

“I have made my views to ministers very clear on the matter, and I will continue to make the case for our fire and rescue service.

“Putting these concerns to one side, I need your views on what you’re willing to pay for local policing and fire services. This is something I have done every year since being elected and it is a vital part of the process of setting the precept. It’s quick and simple to do so I would encourage everyone to have their say.”