Phil Goff
Labour Leader

25 August 2011

Strong message to tax dodgers

The Supreme Court decision relating to two orthopaedic surgeons sends a strong message to those who are structuring their affairs in a bid to dodge taxes and freeload off other Kiwis, says Labour Leader Phil Goff.

"People who dodge taxes simply place more of the burden on hardworking New Zealanders who are already paying their fair share.

"It is wrong. It's bad for the economy and bad for the country," said Phil Goff.

"Labour will set up a taskforce to strengthen tax laws and close the loopholes that allow some people to avoid and evade taxes.

"The Tax Working Group gave a clear indication that current trust and company structures allow some people to make paying tax a voluntary exercise - they're not stepping up to their responsibilities.

"That must change.

"It's unacceptable for people to rort the welfare system by ripping off benefits but it's equally as wrong for wealthy Kiwis to avoid paying their fair share.

"Both add up to stealing from taxpayers," Phil Goff said.

ENDS

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