Update 2: Gonzi avoids Debono's Budget threat

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi avoided the thorny issue looming over the Government's last Budget that may not make it through Parliament. Speaking to Nationalist Party supporters this morning, Dr Gonzi said nothing about backbencher Franco Debono's latest statement that he will vote against the Budget. The meeting held in Qrendi, which forms part of Dr Debono's constituency, focused on the health service. Dr Debono has been threatening to vote against the budget if Transport Minister Austin Gatt remains in cabinet for a long time and on October 4 filed a no confidence motion against the minister. In passing reference to the Budget the Finance Minister will read out on Wednesday, Dr Gonzi said it was not an election exercise but a long term plan for financial sustainability. The Budget is expected to introduce a gradual income tax cut, partially fulfilling a PN electoral pledge. Dr Gonzi criticized the Opposition for not saying how it will finance its pledge to lower electricity tariffs. "It is easy to promise people more money in their pocket," he said with reference to a Labour Party billboard carrying that slogan. But it all boiled down to making responsible choices, he added.