When writing about tax the most frequently used quotation is that from Benjamin Franklin, “But in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” However, reflecting on Hong Kong’s budget, the most apt quotation must surely be that from James Otis, “Taxation without representation is tyranny.”
Following the reading of the Budget Speech there was an outcry of dissatisfaction from our elected legislative counsellors decrying the lack of appreciation of the need to stimulate the economy, care for the aged, provide financial assistance to the unemployed and help small and medium sized enterprises to maintain their workforce. There were also the annual calls for a review of the Inland Revenue Ordinance and the need for the Government to clearly outline its vision and strategy for the future of Hong Kong.
Despite the apparent dissatisfaction expressed by our elected legislative counsellors the budget was passed without material amendment.
What made our representatives change their minds? I am sure that this was neither at the direction of their electorate nor as a result of a change in their interpretation of the needs of the business community. Perhaps they were persuaded to vote for the budget knowing more handouts were to come.
As appreciative as we all were to be given more of the same, it did not escape us that the announcement was made shortly before such events as Labour Day and June 4th expressions of concern.
Surely it is time for elected counsellors to represent their electorate and for the Government to, at least, listen to its tax paying community and address their views and wishes even if they are considered impractical
