LOWER HOUSE TO DISCUSS DRAFT BUDGET FOR 1999

ZAGREB, Nov 26 (Hina) - The Croatian Sabor's (parliament) House of Representatives will on Thursday continue its 35th session with a discussion on the draft budget for 1999. The 1999 budget amounts to 48.45 billion kuna (US$7.69 billion) and is 8.4 per cent higher than this year's. Government representatives have described it as socially responsible and ambitious, a budget which can be realised with the efforts of all. According to the Government draft, there would be decreases in funds for the ministries of defence, interior affairs, finances, and development and reconstruction. More funds than this year should be allocated to the ministries of culture, education, science, agriculture, transport, health, judiciary and social welfare. Since the budget is the central financial document, a lengthy discussion is expected. The lower house should also discuss a law accompanying the budget - the bill on its execution. There are three other bills on the agenda of the 35th session, including two bills on changes to the Law on Health Insurance (proposed by the House of Counties and Parliament Vice President Vladimir Seks). (hina) rml