I SEE the council is considering a tax for bars, clubs, etc selling alcohol after midnight (The Press, April 26).

Is this to silence critics who want to stop the three pubs’ planned openings?

The council can say it will pay for police and cleaning. But it’s a plan that sees the council winning both ways.

If this tax goes through, it will bring in about £286,000 for the council and if the three pubs get the go-ahead, more business tax will be raised, so council wins on passing both points.

Personally, I can’t see £286,000 will be enough for paying towards police, cleaning up and the medical attention for people hurt while drunk or fighting.

W Simpson, Chestnut Grove, New Earswick, York.