ABOLISH AMUSEMENT TAX?

Evening Post, Volume CVI, Issue 28, 2 August 1923, Page 7

ABOLISH AMUSEMENT TAX?

The abolition of the amusement tax on picture shows was suggested by the Leader of tho Opposition (Mr. T. M. VYiit'ord) when the .Estimates were under discussion in the House of Representatives last night. Mr. Wilford'did not think it right to collect such a tax from the working man.

The Prime Minister stated that he could not discuss' policy when the Estimates were being considered, but he could say that legislation on the matter of the amusement tax would be coming down this session. It would provide for a reduction.

Mr. P. EYaser (Wellington Central) moved that the Stamp Department vote be reduced by £1, as an indication that the ivhole amusement tax should bo abolished.

Mr. Massey protested against tho amendment. .Surely members could accept his statement about legislation, despite tho fact that he could not discuss details.

Mr. H. E. Holland (Buller) : "Are you abolishing the tax?" Mr. Massey : "I cannot answer that question. It is not a fair question, because 1 cannot give details." The amendment was defeated by 47 votes to 13.

Mr. Massey: "That vote means the House has instructed me not to do anythiiivt in the way of a reduction of the amusement tax." (Laughter.)

Mr. Wilford's interpretation was that the House had instructed that the tax was not to be abolished, rather than not reduced. He trusted that the Bill to bo introduced would allow for the lifting of the tax off those who could only afford to pay for the lower-priced 6cats at. theatres, etc.

Mr. Massey: "You must have tome intuitive idea as to what is in the Bill." (Laughter.)

Mi-. Wilford: "I have only the idea as to what should be in the Bill." Amusement tax. .on picture theatre seats should be abolished, but those on his side of the House did not stand for taking tho amusement tax off anyone who could afford to pay for a 10s 6d stall.

Mr. P. Fraser (Wellington Central) characterised the tax as entirely wronii in principle, and he took tho result of the division ajs unanimouely in favour of a reduction.