Cyclists Rally Against HST

VICTORIA - A few hundred cyclists gathered outside the legislature in Victoria Wednesday to challenge the proposed harmonized sales tax on bicycles.
The rally was organized by Saanich South NDP MLA Lana Popham who also presented a petition inside the legislature on behalf of 5000 people opposed to the tax hike.

Bikes are currently exempt from the Provincial sales tax but if the HST is implemented on July 1st, 2010 it will be applied to bikes, bike repairs and related equipment.

During question period Finance Minister Colin Hansen defended the moving saying the introduction of the HST is the single most important thing the government can do to stimulate the economy and create jobs.

The Minster also says the government has brought in an HST tax credit to offset the incremental costs on things like new bikes and implemented and increase in the basic personal exemption.

NDP leader Carole James is calling people to write letters to their MLAs and the Premier.

An On-line petition is also being launched at http://www.fighthst.com

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