COMPLICATED FORM

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22820, 30 August 1937, Page 11

COMPLICATED FORM

FARMERS' INCOME RETURNS PROTEST TO COMMISSIONER Information so complete that in some cases it is difficult to obtain is stated by many farmers to be required of them in answering the questions prescribed in the unemployment relief tax form, known as TLB. 58. This is used for the purpose of showing income derived from the business of farming or dealing in livestock or produce during the year. It is contended that a most complete book-keeping system would be necessary to enable farmers to meet the requirements of the form and one man said yesterday that the income tax declaration, in spite of its complications, was an easier proposition. The Auckland executive of the New Zenland Farmers' Union entered a protest against the complexity of the form and the detail it required and it was pointed out to the Commissioner of Taxes, Mr. C. E. J. Dowland, that it had to be filled out by men who were often at a loss to know what was meant. It was stated that a great deal of time was taken up in attempting to comply with its requirements and if was considered that steps should bo taken to have it simplified. Replying to the contentions, Mr. Dowland said it must he recognised that tho form was drafted to meet the requirements of tho department in respect to all farmers. Every endeavour was made to draft tho forms as simply as possible and some minor alterations had recentfy been made to TLB. 08. However, ho would be pleased to give consideration to any suggestions for simplification consistent with the Land and Income and Employment Promotion Acts.