This column is archived at: https://aardvark.co.nz/daily/2019/0219.shtml
Is our taxation paradigm past its best-by date?
Is it silly to try and use 20th-century tax strategies in the 21st century now that it has become simple for companies to operate in a way that allows them to quite legally dodge all but a token amount of tax? Is it time to ditch the concept of corporate tax altogether and recognise that *all* taxes are eventually paid by the consumer anyway?
If the government is (as appears to be the case) out of workable ideas, why aren't they coming to those who they are supposed to serve (the people) and admitting this fact -- whilst soliciting for good ideas to fix the situation?
Pride? Arrogance? Stupidity? Self-interest?
All of the above?