18 August 1999

FIVE STEPS BUSINESS TAX CHANGES WILL NOT AFFECT SELECT COMMITTEE INQUIRY

United New Zealand leader, Hon Peter Dunne, says small business tax changes announced in the Government's Five Steps programme recognise many of the concerns expressed to the Finance and Expenditure Committee's inquiry into Inland Revenue.

"I am pleased that the Government has heard some of the message from the submissions to the select committee, and has acted upon them," he says.

However, Mr Dunne, who chairs the Finance and Expenditure Committee, says today's announcements will not affect the select committee's inquiry.

"If anything, today's announcements will assist the course of the inquiry."

"While the select committee will continue examining aspects of tax policy and its implementation, these changes announced today will make it easier for us to concentrate on the remaining aspects of our terms of reference, including the questions of a tax ombudsman, the possible reversal of the onus of proof, and the internal culture of the Inland Revenue Department," he says.

Mr Dunne says the Finance and Expenditure Committee faces a heavy schedule over the next few weeks before the House rises for the General Election to complete its inquiry and prepare its report.

ENDS
New Zealand's Liberal Party

MEDIA STATEMENT
HON PETER DUNNE, MP
LEADER UNITED NEW ZEALAND
Parliament Buildings, Wellington 1.

e-mail: peter.dunne@parliament.govt.nz. Internet Address: http://www.united.org.nz

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