Although several people on the streets of Hamilton said they had not had time to read up on Friday’s Budget, a few did offer their thoughts on what Finance Minister Bob Richards presented to the Island on Friday.

Stratton Hatfield, 28, said that while he wasn’t fully acquainted with the Budget Book, he was “shocked” to find the Budget did not address alternate forms of generating new revenue.

“I think we need to examine all ways to examine new revenue,” said Mr Hatfield, a designer. “I think that yes, it’s important for us to be saving money but we need to look at ways to be making new money.”

Randall Bassett, a retired senior, said: “I thought it was a good Budget. [With scrapping the 60/40 rule] you certainly need to have an increase of cash in the economy. We definitely need the funds. And it’s up to the Government to pursue all areas.”

Conrad Rentrup, 54, said: “Seems they are moving in the right direction. Unfortunately they have to cut expenses, but the economic environment doesn’t allow you to go into further depths to improve the spending, so I guess there’s no alternative to it. If it’s enough, we’ll see.

“I only read very briefly about it [the 60/40 rule]. I am not Bermudian, so I don’t know how Bermudians feel about it, but considering my background in economics, I would always say if you allow competition, it’s to the benefit of everyone, but is that really true? You can definitely have different opinions on it.”

Raymond Levon, 39, wished more money had been allocated toward financial assistance.

“A lot of people in Bermuda need the help. That $9 million could be gone in a heartbeat because you’re not paying small portions, you’re paying big portions,” said the bellman.

“People need help with laundry, groceries, anything, food ... rent is sky high. I think they should give Bermudian people the chance to own a proper business.”