By Tim Amey

Chilliwack, B.C. - Careful, conservative and cautious that doesn't go wild on spending.  That's how Chilliwack MLA John Les describes Tuesday's budget. 

BC Finance Minister tabled a budget centered around eliminating the deficit before next May's election and not raising taxes.  Les says this budget is more proof that the BC Liberals are the ones to lead the economy.  “For those who suggest there’s an election coming up and we should open the floodgates and spend like drunken sailors, that won’t happen.  It’s not something we’re interested in and it’s not good public policy.” 

Several organizations have criticized it saying there needs to be more cash for health care and education.  Les says that's a slippery slope.  He says you start spending a little more and taxing a little more and suddenly both are out of control.  He says low taxes create jobs and keep an economy strong. 

One thing that is going up are MSP premiums.  They are set to rise by four percent.  Les defends the move saying health care isn’t cheap and the four percent barely scratches the surface.  He says health care is primarily paid for by things like taxes and gas and mining royalties.  He says that four percent is pretty much in line with the increasing cost to health care.
 

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