CHARITABLE BEQUESTS

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 288, 31 August 1929, Page 27

CHARITABLE BEQUESTS

REMOVAL OF DUTY URGED The removal of the 10 per cent, duty at present charged against all charitable bequests when the money is spent outside New Zealand was sought by a deputation from the National Missionary Council, which waited upon the Minister of Finance (Right Hon. Sir Joseph Ward) on Thursday. Sir Joseph Ward gave an assurance that the representations would be met if at all possible. The deputation was introduced by Mr. R. A. Wright, member for 'Wellington Suburbs, and the principal. spokesman was the Rev. E. D. Pa|»hett. Mr. Patchett explained that the 10 per cent, against which complaint was made was in addition to the ordinary duty of 10 per cent. Those churches carrying on missionary work in the islands felt that that work was an integral part of the activities of the borne church. The matter was of special importance to the foreign mission societies of all churches, the British and Foreign. Bible Society, the mission to lepers, and kindred organisations. It was believed that in principle the impost placed on missionary bequests was wrong, as there was no more unselfish and charitable work done by the churches than that of taking the benefits of Christianity to the backward and heathen races. It bad also to be borne in mind that a great deal of missionary income was spent in the Dominion by all missionary societies in the maintenance of their work. What was asked, if granted, would make a considerable difference to struggling missionary societies, but the loss to the Government would be infinitesimal. “I will go into this matter,” said Sir Joseph Ward. “It looks to me a little bit tricky. However, I will endeavour to see if I cannot devise some amendment to meet,the position. If I can, I will exempt you.” Cordial thanks were extended to Sir Joseph for his readiness to meet the wishes of the deputation.