THE DULLEST YET

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 72, Issue 91, 17 April 1929, Page 8

THE DULLEST YET

MR CHURCHILL’S BUDGET A MAZE OF STATISTICS. [ Australian Press Assn. ] Received April 16, midnight. LONDON, April .16. The Budget was introduced 1o a ciowded House, including the Prince of Wall's, who listened to Mr Chur-J--ill with interest. But the general verdict is that easily the dullest of Churchill’s Budgets cleverly wound its way through a maze of statistics, pro during the impression of a defence of the Government’s financial policy since 1924. But artistry or oratory was less conspicuous than previous Budget, efforts. Only when the Chancellor approached the final announcement of taxation changes did the audience sit up, quickly. It is evident that the only substantial change is the abolition of the tea duty tax, which has been in existence since the times of Queen Bess. It has been as much as half a crown, evr.n live shillings a pound, so general satisfaction is expressed at its end. The fact that the entirely removed remission is not confined to Empire tea n also welcomed, as it would mean the removal of irritating Customs restrictions. There was no likelihood of abo lit ion changing the price of the cup of tea in the tea shop. Expedited relief for agriculturists will cost £2,590,000 and pleased farmer M.P.’s- Motorists complain of tho absence of substantial reduction in the taxation of motor vehicles, particularly as the vast majority of motor owners are persons of moderate means. Racing men admit that the tax of a half per cent, of takings on the totalisator is less than anticipated. At least one per cent? - was expected. As this tax is on the course at the moment apparently Mr Churchill is desirous of making totalisator betting popular and as cheap as possible.