Tax dodgers in York would be named and shamed under no-nonsense proposals being considered today.

The plan follows a loss of nearly £450,000 in unpaid taxes which City of York Council was forced to write-off earlier this year.

Suggestions include employing an Internet company which prints a list of people who have refused to pay their dues, and putting names on agendas which are sent to the press.

It is believed York would be the first city in the country to take such direct action to save thousands of pounds of taxpayers' money.

"I would think that all parties agree that people who have a debt should pay up, and the council would dearly like to have more money to spend on services," said Councillor Quentin Macdonald, chairman of the authority's scrutiny board for finance.

"That which is owed should be collected, and collected as vigorously as possible, but there are some limits and maybe naming and shaming is beyond that limit. We will discuss it openly tonight to find out if councillors think it's a good idea or not."

The policy would be used to embarrass non-payers of council tax, poll tax and business rates. Councillors could also include city tenants with rent arrears.

Along with individuals, councillors could decide to publish the names of companies and other organisations which owe money.

But council legal experts are concerned that any mistakes could result in defamation claims.

Claire Pallier, head of the authority's customer accounts section, said: "The council could be open to civil legal challenge if inaccurate information on such matters is published.

"This could then possibly lead to a claim for damages against the council. Care would need to be taken to ensure that any information which is published on debtors is factual and can be substantiated.

"Members will need to weigh the perceived benefits of publication, such as the deterrent effect and the adverse publicity for debtors, against the potential risks."

Coun Macdonald said: "The first person that we wrongly name and shame could cost the council more than if we had kept quiet. That needs to be carefully considered.

"I am hoping tonight's meeting will not be based on political lines. We need members to look at this and use common sense to decide if it should be adopted or not."

adam.nichols@ycp.co.uk