National Federation Party Parliamentary Leader, Biman Prasad today presented the opposition’s formal response to the 2015 National Budget, saying that he welcomes 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.

Debate continues on the 2015 National Budget.