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Hong Kong Times and Oriental Daily added that it was unreasonable for merchants to pass on the increases to the consumers.
Wah Kiu Yat Po (5. and 7.12.75), Ming Pao (7.12.75) and Kung Sheung Evening News (5.12.75) were opposed to the increases which would make life harder for all.
Wah Kiu called the move, "a policy of multiple taxation."
Ming Pao said that the economic survival of Hong Kong during the period of worldwide recession was due to the thrift of the public and the restraints people had accepted.
"But now, the Government is taking the lead to disturb
this stability," it said.
The paper added: "A few capitalists can enjoy guaranteed profits each year at the expense of the people; but Hong Kong will not remain financially stable because of a few minority capitalists."
Sing Pao (5.12.75) hoped that the increase in postal
charges would be the last for the time being.
"The public utilities and Government organisations which have not to date applied for increases must now refrain from doing The public already have enough financial hardship", it said.
Hong Kong Daily News (4.12.75) said: "It is very important to see whether the increases will affect Hong Kong's reputation as a city with a low tax structure', and whether the increased duties will be passed on to the consumers."
New Life Evening Post (6.12.75) referred to the United States Consulate's rejection of the Financial Secretary's statement that the increased taxes were caused by the inclusion of Hong Kong in the United States' Generalised Scheme of Preferences.
"The Financial Secretary appears to be guilty of conning the public as his statement has been challenged," the paper wrote.
"Increases are no longer a major issue with the public who are already numb from the succession of increases imposed despite their objections to them. So why did not the Financial Secretary state his reasons honestly?", the paper asked.
Kung Sheung Evening News (4.12.75) said that the Government should not introduce a large number of increases at the end of the year when most people are finding money very tight.
Wah Kiu Yat Po (6.12.75) accused the Government of introducing the increased duties on liquor and cigarettes three months in advance of next year's Budget.
Sing Tao Jih Pao (8.12.75) said that the Government was increasing taxes to make up a deficit but asked: "Who can the public turn to for compensation?"
It suggested that the Government should cut down on expenditure and increase charges in order to tide itself over its financial difficulties.
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