LOWER HOUSE ADOPTS STATE BUDGET FOR 1998

( Editorial: --> 9779 ) ZAGREB, Dec 19 (Hina) - The House of Representatives of the Croatian parliament on Friday adopted the state budget for 1998 with 74 votes in favour, 19 against, and one abstention. The state budget amounts to US$ 6.3 billion. The budget revenue amounts to US$ 6 billion, while the US$ 339 million budget deficit will be covered by borrowing at home and abroad. The fundamental aspect of the budget for 1998 is the relieving of the tax burden, lower government spending, a more efficient stimulation of the economy, redirecting funds into science, culture and higher salaries for budget users. Next year's budget was drafted on a planned gross national product growth just above seven per cent and a planned inflation rate of three per cent. The government adopted more than a half of some 200 amendments. Some were adopted only in part. According to the adopted amendment of the Committee for Labour, Social Policy and Health, entertainment funds for all budget users remain the same as in 1997. (hina) ha mm 192040 MET dec 97