I must say that I am pleasantly surprised by the Government's commitment to reduce Budget deficit from 7.4% in 2009 to 5.6% in 2010. This is more aggressive than the level forecast by most analysts at around 7 to 8%. This should instill greater confidence in the Government's prudent financial management, promotion of 'value for money' concept in spending, targetted fuel subsidy management and even instilling the entrepreneurial spirit among civil servants. I am referring to the proposal to encourage Government agencies to rent out their premises & equipment to third parties where they get to keep 50% of the revenues!

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