Opposition Leader Alfred Sant has, yet again, painted himself into a corner by declaring the 2008 budget as “too little, too late”.

Let us take a look at two different scenarios regarding the economic performance in 2008. The premise is that Prime Minister Gonzi fashioned his budget on the assumption that Malta’s economy will perform, more or less, as it did in 2007.

Should the economy perform at an inferior pace, the government’s revenue from taxes and other sources are bound to decrease, therefore it will be found that the 2008 budget, as read by Dr Gonzi, would, under those circumstances be too rich – certainly not “too little”.

On the other hand if the economy performs just as well or better than in 2007, it will give a future government better scope to expand on the measures taken in the 2008 budget, therefore it becomes a win situation for all concerned. Here again, Dr Sant’s approach to the 2008 budget is one of unrestrained spending, exceeding that contained in the proposed budget, endangering the expansion of the economy during 2008 and on. Yet, Dr Sant claims that it is impossible for Dr Gonzi to promise a reduced deficit and at the same time deliver his promises! Does this not imply that the 2008 budget is, if any, generous rather than “too little”?

Dr Sant’s incredulous refusal to answer questions during the press conference just after the budget was presented, while at the same time posters were being delivered to all MLP clubs declaring the budget as “too little, too late” is yet another demonstration that the MLP’s interests lie solely at hurling mud before they even consider what is in the best interest of the country. Obviously the posters were printed well ahead of the budget speech.

Most voters who realise the benefits of the new budget cannot but safeguard their interests and those of their country by exercising their most logical option, that is by voting for another safe Nationalist government. Electing an MLP government is risky at a time when steady guidance of the country’s finances is paramount. It is quite evident that Dr Sant just does not have a plan let alone a long-term vision for Malta.

Let’s face it, in baseball terms, the MLP struck out once with Dom Mintoff, struck out twice with Dr Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici, struck two with Dr Sant and his 22-month stint and will definitely strike three (and out) in the next general election. With this kind of record the coach ought to go!

Joe Martinelli

London, Ontario

Canada