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{
    "id": 293671,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/293671/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 154,
    "type": "other",
    "speaker_name": "",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Mr. Speaker, Sir, the Constitution also requires very high standards of service to the people of this great nation. To this end, I propose to amend the Customs and Excise Act to ensure fact processing of applications for renewal of excise licenses. Mr. Speaker, Sir, it has come to my attention that KRA is facing challenges in determining the institutions that qualify for exemption, while engaging in charitable activities. To address this problem, I propose to amend the Income Tax to empower the Minister to make rules for the purposes of administering exemptions of trusts, churches and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Mr. Speaker, Sir, there is need to enhance tax dispute resolution mechanisms to instill professionalism and equity in the administration of tax cases. To this end, I propose to amend the Income Tax Act to provide for qualifications for local committee and tribunal members, and specify the period that the Commissioner is required to file a statement of facts to the local committee. Mr. Speaker, Sir, effective dispute resolution mechanism allows for a faster and efficient settlement of tax disputes. There will be instances where the tribunal has not performed optimally due to failure by some members to perform their duties. In order to ensure effective and uninterrupted service to the taxpayers, I am proposing to amend the Act to provide for additional circumstances under which members of the tribunal may cease to hold office. There is need to provide oversight over the operations of tax agents to encourage professionalism. I, therefore, propose to amend the KRA Act to empower the Minister to make regulations for persons authorized to act as tax agents. This measure will enhance tax compliance. Mr. Speaker, Sir, as promised by my predecessor last year, my Ministry has now finalized the review of the VAT law to align it to the Constitution by making it simpler and modern, based on international best practices. After extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including relevant Departmental Committees of Parliament, the Draft Bill was discussed and approved by the Cabinet. I am, therefore, pleased through this Budget, to table the VAT Bill, 2012, for debate and approval by this House. Similarly, Mr. Speaker, Sir, we committed to review all other taxes in order to simplify and modernize them. Accordingly, my Ministry has commenced work towards a review of the Income Tax and Customs and Excise Tax Act. I expect this assignment to be completed by the end of this financial year. As I have already alluded to, we shall also"
}