The following are the highlights of the Budget presented today by Finance Minister Edward Scicluna:
* 25% drop reduction in power tariffs, reduction in water tariffs.
* Cost of cigarette packets up by 30c, slightly higher prices also for beer, alcohol, bunkering and cement.
* Seven-year programme for the refund of VAT paid on the registration of cars between 2004-2008.
* New vehicle scrappage scheme and grant for car conversions to autogas.
* Cost of living increase in salaries and stipends.
* Top rate of income tax reduced to 29% from 32% as announced last year.
* Parents to have first €9,800 of their income tax-free, up from current €9,300.
* Part-time workers will pay 15% tax on the first €10,000 of their income, up from €7,000.
* Footballers' income to be taxed at 7.5%
* People aged over 45 unemployed for a minimum of two years will retain part of their unemployment benefit on finding a job.
* First-time property buyers will have duty waived next year.
* New Malta Oil and Gas Corporation to handle oil exploration work.
* Free childcare centres from April in project with the private sector.
* Married women aged over 40 unemployed for five years to get tax benefits when they go out to work.
* Benefits for single parents who follow courses.
* White Papers on shop opening hours, a ban on circus animals, the wardens system and the procurement of medicines.
* Heavy vehicles and horses to be banned form roads during the rush hour.
* More medicines to be made available free of charge.
* Incentives to encourage people to take out private pension.