TAX ON WINNING * BETS.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 18763, 30 December 1930, Page 9

TAX ON WINNING * BETS.

Protests By Bookmakers. EFFECT OF NEW BURDEN. United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph —Copyright SYDNEY, December 29. So severely has the 10 per cent, tax on winning bets hit Sydney bookmakers that a number are arranging to move to other States. Several have already intimated that they do not intend to pay the annual taxation fee of £7O due on January 1, for the right to bet in the paddock. In addition they have to pay a license fee to the Australian Jockey Club. Indeed, bookmakers are so perturbed by the falling off in attendance at the larger race meetings, and the disinclination of clients to under the present conditions, that they consider it would be advantageous if they held aloof until the tax is modified or repealed. It is reported that more than one Sydney racecourse is closing down before long. GOVERNMENT’S ATTITUDE DEFINED. NO MODIFICATION OF TAX PROPOSED. United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright (Received December 30, 12.20 p.m.) SYDNEY, December 29. It was officially stated to-day that the Ministry has no intention either of modifying or repealing the betting tax. It is understood the Treasury officials are perfectly satisfied with the results of this tax to date, and point out that they fully expected considerable opposition and resentment. The Government most likely will investigate the starting price betting shops, which are now evading the tax, and provide heavier penalties for convictions.