Voting against the Budget because 'we don't trust government' - Muscat

Labour leader Joseph Muscat was non-committal over what would happen to his electoral promises if a Labour government would find a financial situation different from what the current government is portraying.

Addressing the media after his speech in parliament, Muscat said he hoped that government wasn't lying over the country's financial situation.

"We are giving government the benefit of the doubt. We hope that government has negotiated with the European Union a situation where it gave a true picture of the country's situation," Muscat said.

Muscat said that the message a Labour government wanted to deliver was one of "peace of mind".

"If trusted, we can bring about stability and certainty. We have decided to retain this budget because next year, in May and if elected, we want to focus on the budget for 2014," he said.

He reiterated that the Labour Party didn't know what's going to happen in next Monday's vote. "However, if the country goes to elections we won't start our campaigning till after the festive season is over. It's a responsible decision because we don't want families and business to be affected."

Muscat however said that the possibility was that the country would start the New Year without an approved Budget. He said he expected government to implement the social benefits and COLA increase from 1 January, just like increases in excise duty and fuel prices came into effect the day after the Budget.

"If these benefits are not given, a Labour government promises to do so retroactively from 1 January," he added.

Muscat  also insisted that the Opposition will be voting against the Budget "simply because we don't trust the Government".

"We cannot trust him with the keys to the economy," he added.

The Opposition leader also said that given what was revealed by the Auditor General in his audit report for 2011 with regard to Wasteserv Malta Ltd, Resources Minister George Pullicino should resign.

"I don't have the slightest doubt that the Minister should resign," Muscat said.

Asked when the reduction of utility bills would enter into force, Muscat said the PL had a plan.

"We will announce when and how when the time comes. But we will be transparent," he said.