>On behalf of taxpayers everywhere, I object (strenuously
>even!) to the phrase "the beauty of VAT".

While I would agree with the objection to the adjective "beauty" being used
in this context, I would have to admit that the VAT/GST system is a better
method of taxation than the old sales tax methods.

When GST was first introduced into NZ, I also thought it was an unwise
imposition, but as time went by I did grudgingly agree that the way NZ did
it, with an equal rate applied to everything, was the best way, and am
rather appalled at the umpteen different rates used in the UK/Europe, with
some items being classified 0 rated, others through political pressure
having lower rates than the full rate, and then the differing rates between
countries in the common market area, makes a mockery of what is otherwise
(arguably) a fairer system.

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