British Cabinet Minister Criticizes Cities' Tax Breaks For Scientology

City tax authorities in four British cities-- London, Westminster, Birmingham and Sunderland-- have given the Church of Scientology property tax relief even though it is not classified as a charitable religious organization by the Charity Commission. Free Internet Press reported last week that Britain's Communities Secretary, Eric Pickles, has criticized the action by the various cities, saying: "Councils may award charitable relief. They should take into consideration the Charity Commission's rulings when weighing up whether to do so. I do not believe the majority of the public would want their own council to be giving special tax breaks to such a controversial organization."