Swan says latest RBA statement affirms government handling of economy
Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan said on Friday that the new monetary policy statement of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is a solid testament to the country's stable financial condition, in its observation that Australia emerged from the economic downturn in a much better shape than most economies.
Mr Swan noted that the RBA cited significant government projects such as the Building the Education Revolution which played a crucial role in keeping the economy afloat during the height of the global financial crisis.
He added that the RBA placed well-deserved importance on many government initiatives amidst the effect of GFC such as the sustained building capacity in the economy, lower corporate taxes and establishing the national broadband network.
Mr Swan took swipe on opposition leader Tony Abbot for his apparent predilection in criticising federal efforts that eventually earned praises from the country's central bank.
He said that Mr Abbot, along with opposition treasury spokesman Joe Hockey only showed that "that they don't have the judgement that's required to run a modern economy," when they included these government moves to their regular foray against the Labor party.
Also, Mr Swan highlighted the recent comments made by former Liberal Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, who told ABC that at its present form, the opposition would not be ready to take lead in governing the nation.
He characterised such remarks as 'pretty damning' for the prospect of the opposition taking helm in the next government following the August 21 elections.
The federal treasurer dodge suggestions that he and ousted Labor leader Kevin Rudd have yet to meet since the latter resigned as prime minister, only admitting that he is looking forward to run into his former boss during their campaign sorties.