A PENAL TAX

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 7, Issue 98, 14 July 1944, Page 4

A PENAL TAX

ALTHOUGH the use of private cars is still greatly restricted by petrol rationing, owners have to pay licensing fees that are little reduced from what they were when petrol was freely available. A concession was made last year, but though it was inadequate, the only additional rebate this year is one shilling in the insurance premium. In spite of the strong case: that has been made out for relief, the Government has consistently refused to sacrifice any more of the revenue received from private motor-* ists. In view of the limited use which private owners can make of their vehicles—use which in the great majority of cases is confined to essential purposes—the licensing fees have really become a penal tax on one section of the community. There is another aspect of the matter that should be taken into consideration. Cars which, becuse of the greatly-restricted supplies of petrol, have to be kept idle for the greater part of the month require greater attention than would othewise be the case if they are to be kept in running order. Thus the private motorist is not only called upon to meet practically the same licensing fees, but he has to meet increased maintenance charges. Most of the work done by private cars—meeting boats and trams, taking sick persons to the doctor or hospital—relieves essential public transport. In the light of this fact penal taxation of the private owner who keeps his car in commission is unwarranted.

Accidents With Axes Two accidents occurred recently, both to people engaged in using an axe. Ivan Posa, employed at Matahina was engaged in his work when the axe apparently slipped and as a result lie suffered a bad cut in the knee. Mrs King, of Te Teko. also cut her finger whilst using an axe. Both patients were admitted to the Whakatane Hospital where they are now reported to be progressing satisfactorily.

Monster Wild Boar A monster wild boar was destroyed by a party of settlers in hill country near _Te Uku, in the Wailtato district, a few days ago. The pig was not. weighed,, but one of the party cut off the tail, which measured 19 inches. The shoulder shield was almost two inchcs of solid hide. The tusks, usually a prize of the hunter, were very poor samples, badly worn and broken through many combats.