"THE BLACK BUDGET"

Evening Post, Volume CX, Issue 24, 28 July 1930, Page 8

"THE BLACK BUDGET"

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—l have listened to the delivery of thfi Budget almost every year for forty years and, in spite ot Reform jeers, I say that the Budget of Mr. Forbes appeals to me more than any other. An honest man is reflected in the Budget, for it is a fearless, courageous, equitable, and straight > forward document. I can understand the wealthy section of the community calling it "black": as a rule the wealthy man is just as selfish and greedy as the next man. But a general and unbiassed examination of the Budget will show that every section of the community is,hit to the extent of what can reasonably be expected of each individual in the interests of urgent, public economy and national', wellbeing. That the wealthy are hit hard in proportion is not only right but just: it> may be even regretted that the wealthy are not hit harder still. Mr. Forbes, had a golden opportunity t6 secure economy and obtain revenue by very substantially reducing all salaries over £500, and by slightly increasing all salaries and wages under £300, thus tending to equalise the standards of living. Had he done this, he would have caught votes, and would have been returned to power with a majority such as would have made him independent of the support of another party. That he did not thus improve his shining hour is to his lasting credit, for it shows that he is an honest and fearless politician who is strong enough to sink self and party in the interests of his country. Of whom else can we say the

same? : Mr. Forbes has clearly shown that as it is necessary for the country to economise, he firmly insists that the people shall, both collectively and individually, share in effecting those economies. I admire and take off my hat to a real,strong man for having the courage ,of his wellformed convictions.

It must be borne in mind that the extra taxation is, and may only be temporary, and can be readjusted when and so soon as the country can afford it. Meantime, we cannot afford all our present luxurious habits, and it is therefore hoped that there will be no amendments to the proposals, unless they be in the direction of still further increasing the taxes on the "big" men. At all costs ive must bo enabled to weather the financial storm —a storm which will blow itself out in due course. When the wind is too strong a good sailor invariably shortens sail. _ So, let each one of us help and not hinder "the captajn" in his laudable efforts in bringing the State ship safely to port. No one but a strong man would dare do as Mr. Forbes has done. I join with others in congratulating him, for I am from now on no longer Keforrn; yet— I am

"NIKE DAYS OLD."