CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DISCUSSION

Evening Post, Volume CX, Issue 68, 17 September 1930, Page 13

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DISCUSSION

Speaking at a meeting of the council of the Wellington Chamber of Comme'ree last evening, Mr. A. Seed said that there had been quite a lot in the newspapers about the new film tax and the difficulty that had. arisen through the film houses in America taking exception to it. A threat had been made to deprive New Zealand of American films, and it was apparently sought in this way to force the Government to reconsider the imposition of the tax. Personally, he thought that New Zealand could well do with a holiday from American films. In his opinion, thinking people . would be pleased if many of the films did nut come to the Dominion. T*> r~ r ■•"■•1

"That the chamber endorses the action, of the Government in imposiiii, i..,----taxation."

Mr. C. X B. Norwood questioned the wisdom of passing such a resolution. It was impossible to say how f ar:reaehing might be the result of the closing of picture theatres.- Other industries might bo affected.

Mr. C. W. Budd said there was an impression' that sonic picture interests were escaping taxation.

Mr. E. R. Render remarked that, although the Government was budgeting for a revenue of £30,000 from the films, it was asserted, on the other hand, that a suni of £79,000 was involved. If picture houses were closed, it would have a big effect on unemployment. Probably 50 per cent, of the confectionery businesses in. the centre of the city would have to be closed. He thought further investigation should be mad© beforo a. decision was come to.

Mr. A. <T. Curtis expressed the opinion that the Government and the picture interests should be allowed to continue their consideration, of the question.

The council referred the question, to a committee for consideration and report.