RACING TAXATION

Hokitika Guardian, 14 May 1929, Page 8

RACING TAXATION

NO REDUCTION LIKELY. There is to he no legislation introduced this coming session providing for a reduction of taxation on totalisator returns at race meetings. The .Minister of Internal Alfairs, the lion. P. A. de la. Perrelle, made it quite plain to a deputation from the Waipukurau Racing Club, introduced by Sir George Hunter, M.P., member for the district, 'mere was a representative gathering of sportsmen present at the interview, including .Messrs H. R. Peacock, P. I l ’. Wall, John Win love, and T. E. "Welch. No Government, said Mr de la Perrelle, would he justified in making any reduction in taxation on racing at present. The same taxation must stand. He had discussed the matter with the Bight Hon. Sir Joseph Ward, who was .Minister of Finance, and it was agreed that farming and secondary industries must be considered. “II there is to be any reduction of taxation, then it must he general, but time unfortunately is not ripe for that.” Sir George Hunter, replying to the Minister, said with reference to the agitation for a reduction of taxation i'll racing that he knew it was not possible to alleviate taxation ati present, and agreed with the Minister’s remarks that if there was to he any reduction it should aply all round. Sir George advocated the passing ell the Gaming Amendment Bill for the publication of dividends and telegraphing money to racecourses. The Reform Minister had expressed himself personally in agreement with these proposals. It is understood that a Bill will he introduced during the coming session, providing for the amendments mentioned.