HOUSE OF COUNTIES TO DISCUSS CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS MONDAY

ZAGREB, Oct 31 (Hina) - Amendments to the Constitution and a package of tax laws will be central topics of the 48th session of the Croatian national parliament's House of Counties to begin Monday, November 6. The constitutional amendments which would cancel the semi- presidential system, and strengthen the role of the parliament with the responsibility of the Government toward the parliament, are a part of pre-electoral promises of the ruling coalition. According to the amendments, the parliamentary system would remain, however, the role of the House of Counties will be significantly re-defined. The amendments to the Constitution have formally been submitted by parliament's committee for the Constitution, Rule Book and political system of the House of Representatives based on the established draft amendments to the Constitution and remarks the committees, parties, and representatives had presented in a parliament discussion. The House of Representatives established the draft amendments to the Constitution in mid October, while a decision to approach the constitutional amendments was passed at parliament's session on July 15. The tax package, on which the House of Counties should voice its opinion, includes government's bills on profit tax, income tax and tax counselling service as well as a general tax bill. The passing of this law will ensure more favourable conditions for the development of a unique tax system, its transparency, and efficient implementation of tax regulations. (hina) it jn