The recently re-elected Senator delivered an upbeat Budget speech which was greeted by the usual applause from States Members, as he reviewed rises in private sector jobs and economic growth prospects, drops in the public sector workforce and public spending and inflation.
‘The Island has seen off international pressures, established a new reputation and its own international identity,’ said the Senator, the clear front-runner for Treasury and Resources Minister under the new ministerial system which begins next month.
‘The financial and economic position is the most positive for years and all the indications are that there is also a positive outlook for a return to economic growth, rising employment and stable inflation.
‘We must never become complacent.
However, if we have the resolve to see through the necessary tax changes, to maintain a tight grip on public spending, to be relentless in our drive to improve the efficiency of the public sector and to support sustainable economic growth, then we can face the future with confidence.’
