Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah mounted a defence of his budget in Legco yesterday, though he admitted it had come in for acute and vehement criticism.
Moves to amend the financial blueprint were voted down by government allies.
'Some members have remarked that the budget only introduces one-off relief measures and lacks long-term planning for improving people's livelihood and alleviating poverty. I disagree,' he said, pointing to the government's commitments to social welfare and training.
The budget includes relief measures for taxpayers worth HK$20.4 billion.
Several lawmakers challenged Tsang over what they see as the government's failings on welfare, democracy and education.
Despite agreeing the government could have done more to help the underprivileged, government supporters gave the budget its second reading in the Legislative Council. It passed by 32 votes to 16. A final vote will be held today.
