Budget today

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi this evening presents the Budget 2008, the last of this legislature.

His speech in Parliament will conclude a long process of consultations with the public and constituted bodies, which started during the summer, based on the pre-budget document called Families Growing Stronger.

Ministers and government officials have indicated that the budget is likely to include family-friendly measures and initiatives to promote investment. No new taxes are expected.

The budget debate in the House starts next Monday when Opposition Leader Alfred Sant makes his remarks. Dr Gonzi replies the following Wednesday.

The budget allocations of the various ministries will be debated in morning and afternoon parliamentary sittings between October 25 and November 2.

Dr Gonzi's speech this evening will be carried live on television. A round-up will feature on timesofmalta.com and The Times tomorrow will include a supplement with a detailed look at the budget, the impact of the budget measures on different sections of the population and first reactions by constituted bodies.