SALES TAX ANOMALIES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 15 April 1944, Page 2

SALES TAX ANOMALIES

Sales tax anomalies, particularly in connection with children’s hats and caps, infant’s bonnets and diaper in the piece, which at present are subject to 20 per cent, sales tax as compared with 10 per cent, for other articles of clothing. were discussed. It was decided again to approach the Minister of Customs asking him to reconsider his previous decision. The meeting pointed out that the reduction of sale s tax to 10 per cent, would have the effect of reducing the cost of these essential commodities to the consumer. Serious concern was expressed at the paucity of tangible results following a survey of the stock position of essential civilian clothing, and while appreciating the efforts of the National Garment Control Council, it was felt that better results would be achieved if a practical Garment Controller were appointed. The only trade interests on the National Garment Council were manufacturers’ representatives, and it was felt that botn the wholesale and retail trade should have the opportunity of direct representation on the controlling authority because of their firsthand knowledge of consumers’ requirements. Other matters discussed concerned the distribution of goods through the .Ministry of Supply, pillaged goods, manpower call-up, workers’ compensation assurance, rationing control, austerity clothing and the present rail restriction on the transport of furniture. Reference was made to the valuable assistance given to the trade and the federation since its inception, some 23 years ago by Messrs W. E. Nichols. H. Smith, Wellington, ard G. D H. Hefford, Ashburton, who were now retiring from active participation in federation affairs. In recognition of the part played by these members in building up the federation, they were elected life members. The election of officers resulted as follows: President W. A. Armstrong, Nelson; vice-president, G. M. Stratmore, Wellington: immediate past president, F. A. Smith, Auckland; council. Messrs K. R. Waite, Gisborne, T B Ferguson, Napier. W. M. Sexton, Palmerston north, G. Williamson. Wanganui, J. S. Milne, Auckland. L. G. Armstrong. Te Awamutu, W. J. Court. Whangarei. E. G. Shearer, Wellington. H. Hurst. Nelson, A. Todd. Ashburton, W. Stark. Christchurch. J. W. Munday. Christchurch. B. L. Blo'dorn, Timaru. h! C. Harford, Dunedin. M. Poulter. Dune, din, D. A. McDonald. Invercargill; advisory board, Messrs E. G. Shearer. Wellington, H. G. Fownes, Wellington. A. L. George, Wellington, E. R. Norman. Wellington, V. Simpson, Wellington. B. Smith, Wellington; auditor. Mr G. Y. Berry. F.P.A. (N Z.); secretary M • G. L. Riley.