CHARGES set for housing licence applications are reasonable and fair, according to Chamber of Commerce president Paul Luxon.

Although any additional taxes or charges were unwelcome by local business, he felt that under the circumstances the rates set by the Housing Department were fair.

And with consultation carried out with businesses ahead of the States decision to introduce them in 2007, no one could say they were not prepared for it, said Mr Luxon (pictured).

‘Obviously we would prefer that no taxes or charges were introduced at all, but we appreciate that Housing is a busy department dealing with lots of licence applications, so it seems reasonable that the user pays.

‘We hoped that the charges would be equitable and fair and that is what they appear to be. The short-term licence charges are very low, whereas the long-term licence is more, but again they are much more complex so that seems logical.’

Although the application charges come into force on 1 June, it will be next year before the service that will reduce processing times is introduced.