Allow me at Budget time to add to the diverse opinions as to what this country needs.

We need more watchdogs at the Ministry of Finance – to reduce gross inefficiencies throughout the public services (a certain hospital project inevitably comes to my mind ), and we need fewer bloodhounds at the Inland Revenue Department – to stimulate self-employment as well as to encourage professionals and sole traders to keep fees and prices affordable also to those in employment !

A difficult balancing act – but one that is vital in our present economic circumstances.

Philip E. Rizzo

St Julian’s