Th a letter forwatided to the Municipal Coufieil of the French Concession, the Chinese Ratepaye: s Association in the Concession asks Council to reconsider its proposal for increasing the "land tax" ana "vehicle tax" as from July 1. It is contended that the budget shows a surplus and that therefore an increase of taxes is not necessary. While not belittling the importance of taxation as a source of income, retrenchment is strongly advocated.
"is stated in the letter that the proposed increase of taxes is an all-round increase, the highest increase being over 40 per cent. The problem of livelihood has been rendered more difficult than before since the withdrawal of Chinese authorities from Shanghai, it is explained, and the impending increase in the taxes will give a pretext to landlords to increase rents, which in turn will give rise to rent disputes.
It is also contended that increased taxes will cause merchants to increase prices. Price increases are contrary to the policy at present adopted by the Qoncession authorities, aiming at reducing prices, it is stated. Furthermore, it is pointed out, increased taxes will affect peace and order,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.