Czech MPs to vote on budget with 310-billion-crown deficit

Czech lawmakers are set to vote on the state budget for this year with a planned deficit of 310 billion crowns after what is expected to be a lengthy debate in the lower house. Deputies will first decide on proposals to shift funds within the budget before voting on the draft as a whole. The governing camp led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) together with SPD and Motoristé is expected to have enough votes to secure approval of its first budget. Critics, including opposition parties and some economists, say the proposed deficit exceeds limits set by the fiscal responsibility law.