STAMP DUTIES BILL

Hokitika Guardian, 25 November 1927, Page 3

STAMP DUTIES BILL

CONCESSIONS FOR RACING

(By Telegraph—Per Press Association.)

■WELLINGTON, Nov. 24

The Government’s action in inserting in the Stamp Duties Amendment Bill a clause removing certain taxation from admission money collected by Racing Clubs is accepted by Sir George Hunter as an indication tliat the State authorities recognise that clubs were being too heavily taxed, and labouring under an injustice, in the shape ol double taxation.

When the Bill was before the House this evening, Sir George Hunter expressed his gratification at this remission. ft was manifestly unfair to call upon clubs to pay double taxation, and although the amount of remission was not great, it conveyed to the racing fraternity an indication that the Government was willing to afford relief wherever possible and give some degree of concession from the high taxation imposed upon them by tho totalisator. Mr Downie Stewart explained that Racing Clubs had waited on him during the recess, asking for relief in various directions. It was not feasible to grant anything at that time, hut the small concession upon gate receipts and sale of race cards, as provided in this Bill would obviate the necessity of clubs paying through the totalisator and through amusement tax as well. 'The amount was very small, hut tlie injustice was undeniable. 'l’lio Bill was passed through its final stages.