But will any of the IMF prescriptions be included in the budget? Once again this year they have urged government to remove basic food items out of the zero rated basket, to raise motor vehicle license drivers license fees, and to increase the case on fuel, among other unsavory recommendations.
PM said that in view of the current hard time and inflation those suggestions are completely off the table - for this year at least:
Cherisse Halsall:
"Considerations such as taking basic food items out of the Zero rated basket, raising licenses on cars, and drivers licenses, things like that?"
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Well, we we, listened to the IMF respectfully but at the end of the day it is. for us to be able to make that decision. It is unconscionable for us to look at trying to implement taxes on basic food items especially at a time right now. Later on down, a few years from now that inflation has been tamed and it has gone down maybe we can take a look at it but certainly right now we cannot and we will not take a look at increasing taxes on basic food items."
Reporter:
"The unions want other items added to, and I can't remember if it's basic and in essence to get more benefits for the consumer."
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Well, we would want to take away everything but the reality is that there is only so much that we can do."
