SODELPA and NFP who make up the opposition in parliament have today formally confirmed that the opposition does not support the 2015 National Budget.
National Federation Party Parliamentary Leader, Biman Prasad presented the opposition’s formal response to the National Budget today saying that there are several good policies in health, education and infrastructure but there are serious shortcomings in the budget.
He welcomed the initiatives to assist the people.
However Prasad said his assessment is that the government lacks innovation in trying to increase economic growth through private sector investment and increase productivity in different industries.
Prasad said there is also concern that government debt stands at $4 billion and the initiatives are financed by borrowings.
Prasad raised the question on why duty on imported dairy products is not being reduced.
He also questioned why only Year 1 students will get free milk from next year.
Prasad who is the Public Accounts Committee Chairman also made comments about the Auditor General’s Reports.
Acting Prime Minister, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the committee should only make public comments after they fully investigate the contents of the reports.
Meanwhile the Minister for Finance, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the Opposition’s formal budget response which was made by Biman Prasad is full of flaws and contradictions.
Sayed-Khaiyum said Prasad’s speech was not factual and he will not consider it as advice but as a comment.
He added that Prasad and the Opposition need to understand that the government is realistic about its finances.
He also said that the opposition needs to understand that government is investing in tourism initiatives such as hosting international golf tournaments because it is positive for the country’s economy.
