2025 Budget: 'We don’t have a revenue problem; we have an expenditure problem' – DA

Ray White (in for Bongani Bingwa on 702) speaks with Dr Mark Burke, Spokesperson on Finance for the Democratic Alliance (DA).

Listen below:

As we approach the second attempt at tabling the national budget, it remains to be seen whether an agreement has been reached.

The Budget Speech was postponed after members of the cabinet rejected a proposed VAT increase.

The Presidency says the Cabinet has finalised its input on the revised budget.

However, Burke says conversations between the DA and ANC are still ongoing.

“The fact of the matter is the budget has not been decided. It is an ongoing conversation and the DA's support will be needed for it.” 

- Dr Mark Burke, Spokesperson on Finance - DA

He adds that it is misleading to say there is a budget shortfall, as the gap in the budget is largely due to ineffective and unnecessary spending.

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“If you are willing to look at spending efficiency that grows the economy and creates jobs, then there is no gap.”

- Dr Mark Burke, Spokesperson on Finance - DA

“We do not have a revenue problem, we have an expenditure problem and that has not been reviewed.”

- Dr Mark Burke, Spokesperson on Finance - DA

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.