ROAD TAXATION

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 11, 7 October 1927, Page 10

ROAD TAXATION

INTRODUCTION OF PROPOSALS

THIS SESSION OR NEXT?

A reply the Prime Minister gave to a deputation yesterday raises some doubt as to whether the Government will be able this session to submit to tfie House of Representatives the promised legislation dealing with road taxation.

Mr. Coates stated that, as indicated previously, the Government was working out what he considered were reasonable proposals. Costs to the primary producer bad risen, but the- prices received for his products had not shown a corresponding increase, Local taxation was becoming a very serious matter, and the effect might be to prejudice seriously land settlement. “The Minister of Public Works and myself,” •added the Prime Minister, “have gone into the question pretty carefully, and I think we know where we are. You must leave.to our judgment what form the taxation will take. ... I hope

the proposals will give a measure of satisfaction to those looking lor improved roads and to those looking for a definite steadying up from local taxation.”

A member: Will the Bill come down this session ?

The Prime Minister said he would be cautious on the point as to whether the Bill would come down this session or next session. Undoubtedly the question was one that affected the whole countrv and not localities. He thought the matter was very urgent, but promises' had been made regarding other legislation, and if the proposals regarding road taxation were placed ahead of that, it would have the effect possibly of creating a rod for use against himself. “If there is time,” added Mr. Coates, “we certainly arc going to deal with it.”