Petition seeks rate relief
(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, September 1. A petition signed by about 20,000 people seeking relief for ratepayers was presented to Parliament today by Mr B. G. Barclay (Lab., Christchurch Central).
It was organised by Mr W. J. D. H. McFaul, of Hereford Street, Christchurch. The petition says: “We want the burden of rates spread evenly amongst all citizens on an income.”
The property rating system must be revised, the petitioners say. “We strongly and morally object to the everincreasing property or house rates, and suggest a form of citizens’ tax. “All citizens over 16 years of age in receipt of income should contribute or share in the cost and upkeep of amenities and services that a city provides, thus partially alleviating the burden from the home owner, especially the pensioner home owner. “We contend that the Government should pay full rates on its properties, halls of residence, universities, and primary and secondary schools. “In a national financial crisis city and county councils should be under severe penalty if a local body refuses a request from the Government to restrain from
spending ratepayers money indiscriminately and unwisely.”
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Bibliographic details
Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32701, 2 September 1971, Page 14
Word Count
191Petition seeks rate relief Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32701, 2 September 1971, Page 14
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