REVIEW OF TAXATION

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 November 1938, Page 5

REVIEW OF TAXATION

WELCOMED BY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRIME MINISTER’S GESTURE APPRECIATED. I SPIRIT OF CO-OPERATION DESIRABLE. I By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright. WELLINGTON, This Day. Gratification at the intention of the Government to see that the taxation legislation was overhauled, as announced by the Prime Minister, Mr Savage, on November 5. was expressed by the council of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce at its meeting last night. The president, Mr P. E. Pattrick, said Mr Savage had stated that, because there at present existed many anomalies, the Government intended to examine the incidence of taxation and make necessary revisions. “I think this chamber, in view of the statements made from time to time criticising the incidence of taxation, might express its gratification at the Government’s intention of investigating this matter with a view to removing anomalies,” Mr Pattrick said in moving a motion in that direction. Mr M. G. C. McCaul: “Would it be considered an anomaly for a rich man to be permitted to live?” Mr Pattrick: "I think it is considered that it is not wise to kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.” Seconding the motion, Mr G. D. Stewart, the representative on the council of the Society of Accountants, said business men realised the difficulties facing the Government at present. “After several years of steadily-in-creasirg prices and production, the position today is that farm production has materially declined in volume; also prices for some farm products are substantially lower than at this time last year,” Mr Stewart said. “The country’s revenue is falling. “The Government recognises that steps must be taken to increase the efficient production of goods and to give encouragement for capital to seek investment in this country. A recent statement by the Prime Minister on these subjects was reassuring to business men qnd ! investors, and showed that he realises that the security of the business unit is necessary for the general welfare of the country.” Mr Stewart-said the wages in the pay envelopes of the workers were provided by? (1) The primary producer, . business and manufacturing companies, or (2) the Government. It was essential, therefore, that the country should have sound business units allied to good' government. “It is desirable that a real and helpful spirit of co-operation should develop between the business community and' the Government; and the' recent gestures by the Prime Minister should be welcomed,” he said. “The success and happiness of the country can be achieved only if all sections, irrespective of political or parochial views, pull together to add to the general well-being of the community. “The chamber of commerce is nonpolitical, and, embracing all sections of business, can be of definite assistance in helping to maintain the economic welfare and security of the country,” Mr Stewart said. The motion was carried.