Higher Export Tax
p. 39 · Read in the full issue
Sought On
Caledonian Metals
THE New Caledonian General Council, in view of the in creased world prices for nickel and chrome, has rejected a proposal to increase taxation on tobacco and other goods purchased by the local population and will instead increase the export tax on minerals.
Instead of the estimated 70,780,000 francs (42,580,000 from nickel and 28,200,000 from chrome) suggested by the Administration, the Council has adopted a proposal made by M.
Parazols and seconded by M.
Mariotti, recommending a revenue from this source of 78 million francs.
It is argued that with the higher world price of nickel and chrome the industry can well afford to pay this tax.
The price of Caledonian chrome of tenure 48 per cent., for example, has risen to 25 instead of 22.50 dollars per ton.
After debate, the New Caledonian General Council has agreed to recommend that export of nickel to Japan should be allowed on the same free market basis as that for iron and chrome. Before the war, Japan bought these minerals from the French Colony and also operated mines there on her own account.
Following a request for a review of the public service and civil service salaries made by the New Cale donian assembly, France has sent out M. Mazoudier, Inspector of Colonies, who will report back to the French Government.