Tim Glover has criticised the government’s budget as an election giveaway that will leave future generations to foot the bill.
Speaking in the budget debate, Glover said: “I’m all for putting money in people’s pockets.
“I’ve been saying that for all my time in here, but I’m also for it being done in a responsible manner and a gradual, progressive manner, rather than the crash, bang wallet. What a picture election pledge budget that we’ve got here today.”
He raised concerns about the use of reserves to fund overspends, warning that normalising such practice would have long-term consequences.
House in Order
“The public wants us to and is demanding that we get our own house in order first.
“I’m very concerned about our continued reserves, and the figures presented in this budget are mind boggling, and they will have to be paid going forward.
“We’re taking more from reserves each year. They are going to have to be paid by future generations, and that concerns me greatly.”
Mr Glover also questioned the approach to tax allowance changes, suggesting a more refined system used in Guernsey.
On capital expenditure, he pressed for clarity on Castle Rushen High School, saying members in the south had been close to getting the project over the line under previous ministers.
He concluded: “This isn’t fiction. The fact is, it is the biggest election giveaway budget possible, and is going to leave future administrations and future generations paying for it into the future, long into the future.”