23 March 2000

WELL DONE JIM BUT DON'T STOP THERE

New Zealand First Energy spokesperson Peter Brown, has praised the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Jim Anderton, for getting the price of petrol down and has urged him to keep going with this campaign.

Every litre of petrol sold, even at the new price, attracts approximately 30 cents of tax which goes into the consolidated account (GST and Excise Tax). In addition there is a roading component tax, an ACC tax, and other levies.

"If, as claimed, Jim has the interest of the motorist at heart, he will be very enthusiastic at the prospect of gaining kudos for an even greater and more meaningful reduction if he removes the excise tax on petrol (18.7 cents litre). This could be done on a gradual basis over a number of years," said Peter Brown.

"This tax never finds its way to improving road safety, or for that matter any other improvement for the motorists.

"Will the Minister give the country his assurance that at least this component of tax will be subject to the Government's proposed tax reviews.

"Motorists would really appreciate Mr Anderton's efforts if he would now focus on the Government's tax grab as well," concluded Peter Brown.

ENDS

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