CHATHAMS FINANCE

Press, Volume C, Issue 29511, 12 May 1961, Page 14

CHATHAMS FINANCE

Increase In Dues

IFram Our Own Reporter) WELLINGTON, May 11.

Increases in the dues levied in the Chatham Islands on exports and imports were announced today by the Minister of Island Territories (Mr Gotz). They will become effective on May 25. The minister said the increased dues were urgently needed to overcome financial difficulties facing the Chatham Islands County Council. They were, however, strictly an interim measure pending the Cabinet’s examination of a report on the financial and economic position of the Chathams now being prepared by an interdepartmental committee. “While the Government appreciates and is sympathetic to the difficulties Chatham Islanders face because of their high cost of living, it feels that such increases are necessary to provide adequate funds for essential services.” said Mr Gotz. Council Request

“They have been approved at the request of the Chatham Islands County Council, the elected representatives of the people.”

Unlike most local authorities, which rely on property rates for their incomes, the Chatham Islands County Council has, since 1937, depended on dues levied on certain classes of goods. The cost of providing essential services has risen considerably since the dues were last increased in 1951. In recent years the Chatham Islands have received considerable financial assistance from the Government. This has included annual shipping subsidies of up to £14,300, a grant of £16,000 to repair Waitangi wharf and, since 1946, substantial grants for reading. The County Council, therefore, must have additional revenue to finance its operations.