Amusements Tax Bill.

Hokitika Guardian, 7 November 1922, Page 4

Amusements Tax Bill.

(From Hansard)

Air Seddon (Westland). —Air Speaker. I was pleased to hear the Prime Aliiiister’s reply to tlie last speaker in reference to the 'exemption of musical competlitiohs from tha amuseihents-tax in tho future. I. intended to ask the sainjo question myself. Recently we have had musical competitions on the West Coast, and a great deal ol enthusiasm was displayed in connection with them. The competitions have been the means of bringing out the talent on the Const, and therefore should ho assisted as much as possible. There is one other point I should like to refer to in connection with clause 7. I should like to know whether under 'that clause- hand concerts are exempted from taxation. I refer to hand concerts which are subscribed to by honorary members, who receive tickets for the concerts, and by their contributions keep the band going. Tho Alinister Will realize that the bands are carried on with some diffi-oult-v iii the smaller towns.

The Right Hon Air Massey.—There is no profit from that source. Air Seddon.—No. but at present they are taxed, and I was wondering whether they are exempted under this Bill.

The Right Hon Mr Alassev. — 1 think they will he exempted. Mr Seddon.—l may add that some of the concerts are given tor charitable purposes. It is tho concerts of the subscribers, however, that arc taxed, and it seemed to me that a broad and liberal interpretation of paragraph (h) of clause 7 might allow of their exemption. Now, with other members, 1 ask the Prime Minister to consider the position of the country racing clubs. On the AA’est Coast these clubs find themselves in a difficulty when they have to pay out so much of their profits in the way of taxation. Some reference has also been made to lootball clubs. I do not say that at present' tho Rugby game is in a parlous condition in Niw Zealand, hut the standard of play is certainly much below what it was a few years ago. and every consideration should he given to tiie sport to bring it to the standard that ought to iie possessed by a country that boasts Rugby as its national game. Great interest lias been taken in the districts from Alarlhorough to the AVest Coast in tho competition for the Seddon Shield. When visiting Nelson lately ,1 heard complaint made about the amount of taxation the Government receive from the gates at these contests. AA'ell .1 believe. Sir. that if in the future the tax is reduced, or taken off altogether, the national game will bo considerably helped. I was glad to hear of the proposed remission of taxation on poultry show: and agricultural and pastoral societies. I am sure that proposal will meet with the approbation of people interested in those bodies. Now that the taxation is to he removed 1 am sure that in Westland we shall have shows that will prove a great success.