‘No need for a harsh December budget’

THERE is no need for Finance Minister Brian Cowen to introduce a harsh budget on December 5, according to economist John Beggs.

A report on the Irish Economy by AIB’sEconomic Research Unit is unambiguous.

The unit’s chief economist, John Beggs, states that while there have been big rises in Government spending over the past three years, controlling growth in current government expenditure in the years ahead is going to be very important if the public finances are to remain in good shape.