Tax Justice Aotearoa is disappointed with today’s sudden removal of its billboard promoting the fairness of a capital gains tax.

Spokesperson Louise Delany says that the removal of the billboard prevents an important campaign message from being heard, which is that a capital gains tax would introduce more equality to the tax system.

“A mature democracy depends on a variety of voices, and we are attempting to bring some diversity to the current debate. It’s disappointing to see that has been closed down. Is it becoming harder to mention ‘tax’ in the current environment without fear of censorship?"

Delany feels that the message was not particularly controversial and simply reflected the recommendations of the Tax Working Group. In fact a capital gains tax is quite routine among those countries that Aotearoa New Zealand usually compare itself with.

The Tax Working Group made the point that inequality is a major issue in New Zealand, and that our tax system is one way we can use to address that. Tax Justice Aotearoa feels that the removal of its billboard reflects the inequality of influence in today’s society. To date the most publicised opinions have been those opposed to a capital gains tax – many of whom have vested interests behind their opposition to the proposed reforms.

“If anything this act serves only to shed more light on the divide between the ‘haves’ and those struggling to ensure their voices are heard.”

© Scoop Media