Council tax in England to rise by 5% annually, the fastest in over 20 years, to fund NHS.

Council tax bills in England are expected to rise at their fastest rate in over 20 years, reaching 5% annually, following Chancellor Rachel Reeves' spending review. The NHS is the main beneficiary, with its budget increasing by £29 billion per year, while other public services face cuts. The Institute for Fiscal Studies warns that this could lead to higher bills for householders.