Addressing the representatives of the Palestine Chambers of Commerce at Government House today, the High Commissioner made detailed reference to the questions of the foreshadowed Legislative Council and income tax bill, both of which are engaging the anxious interest of the Palestine population.
The High Commissioner declared that the Legislative Council would be formed only after the municipalities ordinance had been enacted, adding, however, that it was too early to oppose the municipalities bill because the government was still undecided as to its final form. Should the government decide to make changes, it will take longer to enact this bill and put it into operation.
Regarding the proposed introduction of an income tax, the High Commissioner made clear that the government had not yet decided to impose such a tax, but was only considering the question, weighing its advantages against the disadvantages. He said that the last thing the government would do would be to check the flow of capital towards Palestine or make Palestine investments unremunerative. He observed that although the present year was one of prosperity for Palestine, nevertheless, the world crisis might ultimately affect Palestine. In consequence the government’s project regarding income tax had in mind the creation of a reserve for the lean years that might supervene. The High Commissioner also gave his assurance that the income tax, if imposed, will be very low.
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
