THE BUDGET DEBATE.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVI, Issue 1977, 19 November 1921, Page 4

THE BUDGET DEBATE.

The people of New Zealand will be glad to know that the political extravaganza described as a Budget debate has been brought to an end. It has afforded a few disgruntled members of the House an opportunity for blowing off steam, but otherwise it has served no useful purpose whatever. The Prime Minister made several important intimations in his speech in reply, one of which was to the effect that it is proposed to make a 10 per cent, reduction in the salaries of public servants, commencing at the highest and going downward as far as those who arc receiving salaries of £2OO per year. The fixed percentage basis of reduction will scarcely be received with satisfaction, even though the lower-paid servants be excluded. Nevertheless, it is satisfactory to know that a start is to be made at the top of the ladder. In this connection it is worhy of mention that His Excellency the Governor-General had voluntarily offered to accept a reduction of £SOO per year in his honorarium. This offer shows that he is, what members of the House spontaneously declared him to be, “a genuine sport.” If members of the Public Service accept the situation in the same sporting spirit, and with a full recognition of the necessities of the State, the existing strained financial situation will speedily be relieved. Mr Massey admitted last night that the Dominion was faced with serious problems, but he expressed the fullest confidence In the ability of the people to overcome their temporary difficulties. If everybody pulls together, and displays courage and determination, the cloud of depression that has been hanging over the Dominion for the last few months will assuredly be dispersed,