The government's billion SEK support for households and businesses has been criticized by leading economists and called "election pork" by the opposition. However, Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson (M) defends the large loans.
BusinessThe government's support for households and businesses in the form of electricity subsidies, reduced taxes on gasoline and diesel, and aid to the aviation industry is being criticized by prominent economists. "It is insane policy," says economist John Hassler regarding the electricity subsidies.
BusinessFinance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson (M) wants to borrow money to lower taxes on gasoline and diesel and to fund electricity subsidies. The spring budget includes unfunded proposals totaling SEK 7.7 billion. There are preparations for an additional SEK 8 billion in tax cuts ahead of the autumn elections.
BusinessS leader Magdalena Andersson said at a press conference she expects the government not to include any unfunded proposals in the spring budget amendment.
Swedish politicsThe Fiscal Policy Council describes the report published today as "the most serious criticism ever." But Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson (M) does not think she has done anything wrong.
BusinessThe Fiscal Policy Council is issuing its sharpest criticism yet of fiscal policy. According to the expert authority, borrowing money to fund defense while simultaneously cutting income tax is striking. Future generations will have to pay, Council Chairman Lars Heikensten says.
BusinessThe scope for reform for the entire next term is basically over, Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson (M) said. It is "deeply irresponsible" and a shocking statement, Social Democrat Mikael Damberg said. Damberg said it was a testament to irresponsible economic policy.
BusinessGöran Hjelm, head of the Fiscal Policy Council, has been appointed a new member of the Swedish Central Bank's Executive Board. The announcement comes as a surprise to economists, as he is not particularly well-known. "It was not what I had expected," said SEB's chief economist Jens Magnusson.
BusinessYou're up to date in Finanspolitiska rådet
That's every story in Finanspolitiska rådet for now.
