SHEEPOWNERS’ PROTESTS

Evening Star, Issue 17701, 30 June 1921, Page 3

SHEEPOWNERS’ PROTESTS

EXCESSIVE LAND TAXATION. [Special to tub ‘ Star.’] CHRISTCHURCH, June 30. At a meeting of the executive of tho Canterbury Sheepowncro’ Union a letter was read from Mr L. R. C. Macfarlano drawing attention to the excessive taxalion on land, and the disparity between the English bank rate and that being charged "in New Zealand at present Referring to the matter of taxation, Mr 11. D. Acland said that there seemed to ho a general belief by those outside the industry that enormous profits had been made during tho commandeer period. Ho gave several instances showing that the los.-es this year had more than wiped out any extra money that was made during the commandeer period. Taking the position morally, and having in view tho enormously increased cost of operation, sheepowners to-day had to face a loss, and under present conditions those depending on the industry al°no wore not able to pay taxes. The following resolution was carried— That, owinc to tho excessive increase in the laud tax serunsly crpplmg the sheepowning industry in Canterbury, the Government be asked to endeavor to reduce tins tax. FREEZING STOCK CHARGES. A letter read from the secretary to the Otago and Southland Shipowners’ Union stated that at the annual meeting of tho Otago Union the question of excessive charges for freezing stock was discussed, and it was generally agreed that this was (Frivtly trareable to the high rates of pay, which were out of proportion to the present values of meat. Mr Rutherford sa'd this matter had been brought before the Pro- 1 ducers’ Committee at 'Wellington, and every effort was being made to reach a satisfactory solution. The following motion was carried unanimously: That this association requests tho freezing companies to join with it in a strong effort to reduce the charges next season, ns under present conditions the industry cannot possibly pay existing rates.