The present government is doing its best to pull our debt back to a manageable level.

Why can’t we have bi-partisan support to do this?

If Labor financial spokesman Tony Burke feels the present government should re-address the proposed budget then who better than he and his cohorts working with them to help sort out the difficult and sensitive measures needed to do so.

Surely the days of nit picking are over.

In both parties back room advisers are many.

With all the combined brain power working in the same direction solutions can be found where we can all play a part.

It is also time for a role change for unions to take a more co-operative role.

Red tape restrictions by them that need urgent attention especially with regard to overtime and special loading is stifling much employment and inhibiting economic growth.

We all need to recognise the time of plenty has gone.

The time of government hand out has gone and everyone needs to manage their finances on less.

In particular big corporations bent on increasing profit need to appreciate this fact.

It is interesting that discounts offered in grocery departments are rarely offered on essential foods.

Those on lower incomes are just as responsible as everyone else for wise use of the government support they receive.

We are living in a vastly changed society and as a community we need to do our share to minimise unnecessary spending.

Maybe community groups could think laterally and innovatively to help self finance.

People power and all politicians working together could help put us on a second economic footing.

_M. CAMPBELL-SMITH, Launceston.