Hi

Many years ago a good friend of mine's Mother was the landlord of a local pub, My friend was looking at taking over and set about arranging the paperwork, as this was progressing his mother left and handed the responsibility of the business back to the pub management firm. During the few months of back and forth negotiation between parties my friend was acting as manager but no formal agreements had been signed.

Both sides were in disagreement on several matters and decided not to continue with the venture. The keys were handed back to the management firm and the matter was closed.

The pub management firm dissolved a few years back and his mother sadly passed away.

My friend has since been chased by the local council for council tax of several thousand pounds for the public house.

No paper work has ever been signed taking responsibility for the pub and the brewery have sent a letter confirming that fact.

Does the council have any right to chase him for the money? They have been threatening legal action etc.
Does the council have any right to pursue his father on any one else for this debt?
As the pub management firm has dissolved, will the council write the debt off?

This was six years ago, Can council tax be classed as statute barred?

He wants to get the matter cleared up but is afraid that if he approaches them they may go after his property for the debt.

Any suggestions on course of action and possible outcomes.


SB