5 MARCH 1927, Page 3

For the fourth year in succession the Indian Budget shows

a realized surplus. Sir Basil Blackett is to be heartily congratulated upon his performance. The Esti- mates introduced in the Indian Legislative Assembly on Monday promise a fifth year of surplus: Few changes are proposed in taxation. The most important one is the abolition of the export duty on tea, but great satis faction has been caused by the reduction of the import ditties on motor cars and tyres. We sincerely hope that Sir Basil will succeed in his determination to get rid of the provincial contributions altogether. It is to this cause that he once more dedicates his anticipated surplus.

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