Liquor stores will reduce their pricing as much as they need to, to remain competitive in the market.
This only rolls back the most recent increase, it does not eliminate liquor tax. (Otherwise it would be even cheaper
)
It does not impact the minimum drink prices; except any portion due to the recent tax increase (now rolled back)
It does not roll back the tobacco tax.
Seem to be some mixed messages coming from government. Here are a couple of quotes from MLA's in recent days regarding the possibility of a sales tax.
Quote:
Lloyd Snelgrove: "Over the coming months, we will be considering numerous options to reduce our spending and raise our revenues." (July 1, 2009 - Edmonton Sun)
Ted Morton: Its going to have to be both. The shortfall is so big that cuts alone cant do it. (July 7, 2009 Calgary Herald)
Ron Liepert: It has to be a combination of everything. What all of those things are going to be, that's what we have to decide. (July 7, 2009 Calgary Sun)
Ron Liepert: It's become almost an Alberta mantra somehow that we're never going to have a provincial sales tax. I am going to be open to whatever is brought to the table. I'm not ruling anything out. (July 7, 2009 Calgary Sun)
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Then Stelmach:
Quote:
Ending speculation about possible tax hikes, Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach announced Tuesday the province is not increasing personal or corporate taxes to deal with Alberta's growing financial woes.
"As long as I'm premier of this province, there will be no tax increases .
No tax increases, period," Stelmach forcefully told reporters after a cabinet meeting in Calgary.
"So don't talk about them 'cause there won't be a sales tax and there won't be any tax increases, period. http://www.cbc.ca/canada/edmonton/st...r-alberta.html
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This whole episode plays like good cop / bad cop. Get's his peons to float crazy tax balloons, then good 'ol Eddie comes in to set the record straight and save the day.
And just some additional food for thought......his leadership review is less than six months away.
