Tax Increases

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31363, 8 May 1967, Page 14

Tax Increases

Sir,—Mr Holyoake continues to surprise me. The country’s economy is rendered so precarious, so soon after his “she’s all right” reassurances, it requires precipitate action under the cover of darkness so that the coffers can be filled. Sir Matthew Oram (May 3): “No bill should be passed finally unless first passage can be justified—allowing electors to be more adequately informed.” Mr Holyoake (May 3): "We have said, and I still say, this country’s economy is strong.” But we’ll consider appointing a couple of extra back benchers! With an extra 100 m dollars, we’ll not alter taxation rates! Why not freeze prices (suspend Standing Order 302), peg wages? Devalue the dollar to parity with the United States —we can fiddle the internal gold price, can’t we? Buy Boeing and bust. (Only 6.6 m dollars) —saved 4m dollars on extra 1500 urgently needed Secondary Chaikies! Back to the bush and gold pan, good training for Vietnam.—Yours, etc., T. E. SANSON. Hokitika, May 5, 1967.

Sir,—ls New Zealand launching into another major depression? Who was It that pulled us out of the last depression—yes, it was Labour. I am glad that the Prime Minister does not have to live on the budget I do. Living in the country I find I have to travel long distances, therefore need a car, which in turn needs registration and petrol. Will all your would-be Nationalists think before voting.—Yours, etc., CHERYL. May 4, 1967.

Sir, —Could anything be more ridiculous or laughable than the thousands of city motorists queueing up for petrol last night to save anything from say, Is to 4s to fill the petrol tank? Country people 80 miles or more north and west of Christchurch have been paying that 4d extra for years and no one has heard anything of it, nor will they hear about this extra 4d. The labour Party would be better employed explaining that every wage increase puts up living costs, Instead of wasting time on useless divisions in the House.—Yours etc., COUNTRY HOUSEWIFE. May 5, 1967.