HIGHWAY TRAFFIC.

Putaruru Press, Volume VI, Issue 257, 11 October 1928, Page 1

HIGHWAY TRAFFIC.

TAXATION CONFIRMED. A short discussion on motor taxation took place at Monday’s meeting of the Putaruru Chamber of Commerce, when a member stated that he understood that motor lorry interests in the cities had approached every member of Parliament with a view to obtaining a reduction in taxation. Mr. Griffiths stated that county councils and other country local bodies did not realise the fight which was being put up. The present taxation only amounted to a fraction of Id per mile, and was a fair one in that the land was already carrying its full share of roading costs. He understood that one local firm utilising about 20 lorries had flatly declined to support the agitation for a reduction as it considered the present taxation equitable.

Mr. Spear: It only amounts to a fraction, and in any case they can pass it on, so I don’t see what they have to complain about. It has been stated that taxation has caused numerous bankruptcies, but that is not the reason. . Mr. Snell pointed out that without such taxation it would be impossible to maintain the improvements to the roads. Other members agreed with these views, and it was decided, on the motion of Messrs. Griffiths and Scott, that in view of the rising costs of road construction and maintenance and their burden on the land, that the chamber protest against any suggestion of reduction being made in motor lorry taxation.

It was decided to forward copies to the Prime Minister, Minister for Public Works, and Mr. F. F. Hockly, M.P.