GOVERNMENT’S programmes and policies for the 2007/08 fiscal year will be outlined on Thursday when Governor General Prof Kenneth Hall delivers the Throne Speech at the state opening of Parliament.

Later in the afternoon, Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Omar Davies will table the 2007/08 estimates of expenditure in the House of Representatives.

The estimates will provide details on how the programmes will be funded and what the various ministries and agencies will receive for recurrent (house-keeping) and capital (development) expenses.

The Standing Finance Committee of the House will meet to consider the estimates from April 3 to 5.

On Thursday, April 12, the finance minister will open the 2007/08 budget debate, which will last until April 26. During the debate, selected members of the Government and the Opposition will make presentations.

Opposition Spokesman on Finance Audley Shaw is expected to make his presentation on Tuesday, April 17, while presentations will be made by a government minister and an opposition spokesman on Wednesday, April 18.

On Thursday, April 19, Opposition Leader Bruce Golding is scheduled to make his contribution to the debate.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller is slated to make her presentation on Wednesday, April 25. The finance minister will close the debate on Thursday, April 26.

After the completion of the budget debate, other members of the House of Representatives will make their presentations in the sectoral debate, which follows.