asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that firms have written to their customers in connection with the proposed increased five per cent wholesale tax which will take effect from the 1st January, 1969, and have stated that tax at the increased rate of ten per cent must be paid on all unpaid accounts on that date; and if, having regard to these complaints, he will clarify the position.
Ceisteann—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wholesale Tax.
9.
As stated in the relevant financial resolution, it is proposed to increase the rate of wholesale tax to 10 per cent with effect as from the 1st January, 1969. The effect of the proposal will be that wholesale tax at 10 per cent will be payable on moneys received on and after the 1st January next in respect of taxable sales, including moneys received on and after that date for sales made before the 1st January.
A similar position obtained when the wholesale tax was introduced as from the 1st October, 1966. Tax was payable on moneys received on and after the 1st October for sales made before that date.
Will the Taoiseach bear in mind that when the turnover tax was introduced it contained a similar provision but that on reconsideration it was agreed that individual firms could either pay the turnover tax on receipts in respect of sales prior to the scheduled date or elect to pay turnover tax on all sales thereafter? Does he propose to consider a similar alternative in respect of the impact of this additional wholesale tax?
The position which I have outlined obtained on the first occasion on which this tax was introduced and it is intended to continue the same procedure.
There will be no similar concession to that made in regard to the turnover tax?
No.