Fossil fuels Woman could lose her home in tax protest

A woman who withheld council tax payments for three years in protest at her local authority's continued investment in fossil fuels fears losing her home.

- Matthew Taylor

Jane McCarthy, 74, said she had decided on the protest after becoming increasingly fearful about the impact of climate breakdown on future generations, particularly when she learned about climate tipping points.

McCarthy, who has terminal cancer, said she had not taken the decision lightly but it was a matter of principle as Buckinghamshire council continued to invest in fossil fuels through its pension fund.

"I really object having to hand money over knowing that it's going to be used in ways that are reckless, that are damaging my children's chances of a livable future, let alone my grandchildren," she said.

She appeared at Reading county court earlier this month, resulting in a final charge order on her home, leading to fears the council could force her to sell up to repay the debt.