26 August 2005

GST On Petrol Must Go - Peters

New Zealand First Leader Rt Hon Winston Peters said today that in the wake of ever-increasing petrol prices, the New Zealand First proposal to remove GST from the price of petrol will affect the average New Zealander’s income much more than tax cuts for the rich.

“This cut will benefit every family and every business,” said Mr Peters.

“With freight being cheaper, the effects of this policy will be reflected in lower grocery prices and the prices of almost every consumer good.

“In fact, the savings each week will ensure that every household – whatever its make up – will receive much the same tax cut as National is promising, but for one third of the price to the government’s coffers.

“It is also worth noting that currently taxes and duties on petrol account for 47% of the price of petrol – so the GST is merely a tax on a tax.

“New Zealand First believes this is wrong in principle and our policy is another reason why we are your only choice for change,” said Mr Peters.

ENDS

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