Island needs to move away from method of 'Budget to balance'

Members of Tynwald are debating the Budget

A debate is ongoing in Tynwald about this year's Budget.

It was presented to the house by Treasury Minister Alex Allinson this morning (21 February).

Whilst it appears to have broad support it is not without criticism.

Douglas East MHK Joney Faragher says whilst it is not a Budget of austerity it shows that Treasury "budgets to balance" and is not ambitious enough.

She says by borrowing government could solve the housing crisis, therefore addressing affordable housing for key workers and first time buyers, fueling brownfield regeneration and helping people in the context of the cost-of-living crisis:

Ms Faragher confirmed she will be supporting the Budget.