Excess Profit Tax On Farmers

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 43, 14 November 1940, Page 11

Excess Profit Tax On Farmers

Sir, —I notice that at a small meeting of farmers at Feilding, a resolution was passed expressing the opinion “that the operation of the Excess (Profit) Tax on the farming industry must ent at the root of increased production.” This resolution, which the public (and the Labour Party) will at once conclude represents the true reaction of the producers is very regrettable.

A month or so ago. we were all called upon and asked to produce up to the limit possible as a war effort (without regard to the ultimate profit), and we nil agreed to do all we could to help tl>e Empire in her supreme struggle. But now, according to the speakers to the resolution, it seems that as the excess profits are not to remain in our pockets, we shall no longer strive to increase our production ! What ammunition for those who are so ready to decry the work of the farmers! However. I am quite sure that 95 per cent, of the farmers wiil not reduce their efforts one iota on account of the excess profit tax. We intend to produce all we possibly can in case Britain becomes short of food, on account of possible destruction of food by tbe enemy. It is. to me, most outrageous that a few farmers not elected to represent us should broadcast opinions which, to say the least, are often passed without due consideration, ami are often quite opposed to the spirit behind the great majority of the producers.—l am, etc.. RANGITIKEI. November 5.