By ISAAC NICHOLAS
THE Government has allowed for greater participation in the 2008 Budget debate, when it adjourned without using its numerical strength to push through the budget.
The Government had more than 60 MPs in attendance and would require at least 12 more, and with the Opposition more than likely to give its backing, the budget could have been passed.
A source close to the cabinet said the Government caucus meeting early yesterday agreed to give opportunities for a wider debate before it passes the budget.
National Planning and District Development Minister Paul Tiensten then gave his maiden statement on the Development Budget which was his first as minister.
State Enterprises Minister Arthur Somare then moved that the debate be adjourned to 10 o’clock this morning.