Remove the GCT on bran and whole wheat flour

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Based on the anticipated shortage of agricultural products in the country resulting from Hurricane Beryl, there will likely be a substantial increase in the consumption of bread. I am therefore recommending to the minister of finance removing the general consumption tax (GCT) and any other tax on the above items.

My reasons are as follows:

1. Bread is the most practical alternative to substitute the absence of farm produce.

2. Price of bread will never increase more than five per cent at any given time in Jamaica, unless there is a world shortage of wheat.

3. The above items have more nutritional value than regular flour.

4. Bread will still be the best food purchase when compared pound for pound with any other food item.

5. There are over 130 wholesale bakers in Jamaica, spreading out across the island.

I hope my humble suggestion will be considered.

TREVOR FERGUSON

Founding President Bakery

Association of Jamaica (1973)