IMF talks important, but not crucial, says PM Orban
Speaking on Hungarian public radio MR1-Kossuth, Orban said that Hungarian legislation was “nobody else’s business” and Hungarian deputies were not to be dictated “what law they may pass and what they must not”.
Concerning recent, foreign criticism of the government, Orban said that “we set our own goals, we meet those targets, and if somebody gives us good advice we will thank them, but if they make an attempt to divert us we will politely refuse.”
On the subject of a possible deal with the IMF, the prime minister said that if Hungary is granted a “safety net”, it will “feel more confident and secure” during the upcoming period, but added that the country “will cope” even without such a deal.
Orban also referred to the central bank bill, to be voted on by parliament later in the day, and said that it was an “extremely sensitive” piece of legislation, with Europe’s keen eye on the independence of the national bank. He said that out of 15 change proposals Brussels had made 13 had been incorporated in the motion, and Hungary was ready to defend its position in the remaining two areas on which views still differ. He added that the bill was “all right”; it would serve the interests of the national economy, and improve cooperation between the government and the central bank.
On the subject of junior doctors’ demanding higher wages, Orban said that the government “would not speak the language of blackmail” and was working to come to an agreement with disaffected physicians. Whether junior doctors accept the government’s offer or not, the government has taken steps so that patients are not left unattended, he said. He also added that the government was in the process of settling overdue bills of public institutions, and said that “as long as we have hospitals indebted up to the eyes, I cannot focus on doctors’ pay with a clear conscience”.
