The deputy leader of Norfolk County Council has warned people might have to shoulder higher council tax increases next year because of the financial pressures facing the authority.
Andrew Jamieson, also cabinet member for finance at Conservative-controlled County Hall, said the it was currently predicating its budget on a 3pc increase - but might have to consider levying more.
His comments came after Tory leader Kemi Badenoch quizzed prime minister Sir Keir Starmer on whether he would change the rules around council tax, which enable authorities to impose increases by up to 5pc without need for government permission or a referendum.
The government subsequently confirmed that threshold would remain the same.
The county council is currently consulting over possible increases of 3pc, 5pc or beyond 5pc next year, as it looks to plug a £45m gap to balance its books.
Mr Jamieson said: "The council's budget planning assumptions are based on a 3pc increase in council tax for 2025-26, but we are currently consulting on a range of options including a 5pc increase.
"The council is still in the process of developing its budget for next year and faces a number of well documented pressures.
"These now potentially include a significant increased pressure as a result of government decisions in the national budget increasing employment costs linked to the minimum wage, and changes in National Insurance.
"These will impact in particular on third party providers delivering social care.
"The council will look carefully at the available council tax flexibility as confirmed by the prime minister, as the budget setting process continues.
"Final decisions on the level of council tax will not be made until February 2025 when the full council considers the budget.
"The council continues to focus on minimising the level of council tax, within the statutory parameters set by government, in order to provide value for money for Norfolk taxpayers, while safeguarding the provision of vital services."
If the county council does decide to increase council tax by 3pc, it would add £50 to the annual bill for a Band D home, while 5pc would add £84.
The consultation, which runs until December 16, is at www.norfolk.gov.uk/38760
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