Government cancels Costco demand notice
Mon, February 06 2006
Vancouver - Government has withdrawn a demand notice seeking information on out-of-province retail purchases by British Columbians from Costco Wholesale Canada, Rick Thorpe, Minister of Small Business and Revenue, announced today. The announcement follows a review of the ministry’s cross-border sales tax audit and compliance initiatives.
"The ministry is guided by the principles of the Taxpayer Fairness and Service Code, and is committed to ensuring we have the highest levels of protection for personal information at all times,” said Thorpe. "Accordingly, I am pleased to advise the demand notice has been cancelled. In addition, I will be seeking changes so the accountability for issuing demand notices will rest with the minister – "as it does in other Canadian jurisdictions."
Thorpe also announced that the ministry will develop a comprehensive public awareness action plan to educate British Columbians about tax obligations.
The ministry will also continue to work with small businesses and border community leaders to ensure government is aware of the issues in the region and pursue the goal of growing local economies throughout British Columbia.
A copy of the review is available at: www.gov.bc.ca/bcgov/content/docs/@2Rh15_0YQtuW/
A copy of mp3 clips of Rick Thorpe, Minister of Small Business and Revenue announcement that the BC government to withdraw demand notice can be downloaded here.
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