Moviment Graffitti gave a mixed reaction to the budget, saying that while it included various positive social proposals, on the other hand, various groups of people were excluded from certain benefits and reforms. If there is a group of

people who shall benefit, it is the well-off, who are singled out by many budget proposals.

The movement said it agreed with the budget proposals to give full cost of living compensation to pensioners, to give children’s allowance to all children, as well as the revisions in income tax. However the same cannot be said in regard to the lack of measures with regard to workers on the minimum wage, single-parent families and cohabiting partners.

The minimum wage was not increased, single parents will not receive an increase in benefits, and cohabiting partners are excluded from various entitlements such as joint income tax computations.

Yet at the same time, the government is once again choosing to subsidise generally wealthy people who choose to make use of private education.

As regards the energy surcharge, Moviment Graffitti said this should be low for basic consumption of energy yet should progressively increase for wasteful energy use.

As for housing, it said, the one per cent subsidy on bank loans was a step forward, yet more needs to be done. For example, grants given to young couples should be refunded only if the property is sold, and not after ten years.