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Ministers gave Birmingham City Council permission for the 10% rise in each of the next two years - a total increase of 21% in a move that usually requires a referendum. Europe's largest local authority has declared itself effectively bankrupt and is trying to make £300m of cuts. Members of the council have described the situation as "devastating". Up to 600 council jobs could also be cut, with the likes of libraries, parks and cultural projects all due to be affected. It comes amid concern over the finances of councils around the country that are expecting to face collective deficits of £5.2bn by 2026.