Ministers’ vision triumphant

The idea that the balance between public sector cuts and new taxation should be skewed heavily in the direction of cuts has been swept aside as the House has progressed more rapidly in its deliberations than many imagined would be the case. Much the same can be said for the ideas that public sector services should be protected at very nearly any cost and that to do otherwise would prejudice the Island’s economic recovery.

Throughout this week and in the period leading up to the great debate, ministers – and particular Treasury Minister Philip Ozouf – have emphasised that the executive has done its homework with care and diligence. They have therefore remained confident that the 50-50 split between new taxes and cuts that is at the heart of their strategy is not only appropriate but also the most prudent way to meet the challenge of looming deficits.

With little or no scope for last-minute upsets, only time will tell if the route to which we are all but committed in detail as well as general outline will solve our economic problems and ultimately reinstate the prosperity which, in the post-war years, has been the rule rather than the exception.

When harsh measures are introduced –- and promised new taxes and unprecedented cuts can be described only in these terms –- the politicians driving them are unlikely to win many popularity contests. The present executive, however, might manage to enhance its image by making resolute efforts to act in good faith and by constantly reviewing the progress and efficacy of their general strategy rather than resting on the laurels of victory.

Among other things, this is likely to entail continuing to identify pointless bureaucracy that can be pruned – especially if this exercise can delay or halt the imposition of additional taxes.

It would also be very much to the executive’s advantage if, at some point in the near future, they could say with total conviction that they were able to tax businesses and individuals with equal fairness.

In his opening remarks as the great debate began, Chief Minister Terry Le Sueur urged the House to ‘get real’. By his yardstick, a majority of Members did just this. He and his ministerial colleagues must now meet the same standard as they press home the policies that they have so earnestly promoted.