Austerity phase

This letter refers to the news report ‘PM forms seven-member body to reduce government expenses’ (March 14, 2024). A reduction in the perks and privileges of the privileged and ruling elite is essential. In my opinion, an all-out austerity plan should be phased in for a period of three years so that the nation can make the painful adjustments needed for a sustainable economic revival. For starters, this austerity plan may generate huge savings for the newly elected government at a time when it needs funding the most. I have no doubt that our ruling classes and our elite would be willing to bear the proposed three-year austerity phase for the sake of the country and to minimize the chaos occurring on the streets due to hyperinflation and other economic difficulties.

Abbas R Siddiqi

Lahore