62% of the public does not want the new government to cut taxes as part of its economic policies, but to increase spending on health, education and welfare, according to a “Globes”-Smith survey conducted by Rafi Smith. 27% want the new government to continue its predecessor’s policy of cutting taxes and government spending.
The survey found that 49% of the public prefers acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to form a coalition with MK Avigdor Lieberman’s Yisrael Beitenu, compared with 31% who prefer a coalition with Shas. Among Kadima supporters, 55% prefer Yisrael Beitenu, compared with 22% who prefer Shas. Among Labor supporters, 38% prefer Shas and 33% Yisrael Beitenu.
Concerning defense, 37% of respondents want Minister of Defense Shaul Mofaz to stay at his post, and only 8% think Labor Party chairman MK Amir Perez should be given the defense portfolio. 22% of respondents cited MK Ami Ayalon (Labor), and 16% cited MK Avi Dichter (Kadima). Among Kadima supporters, 46% prefer Mofaz, 28% Ayalon, 19% Dichter, and none mentioned Perez. Among Labor supporters, Mofaz and Perez each received the support of 22% of respondents, and 40% named Ayalon.
In response to the question, “Which of the following do you prefer as minister of finance?” 35% said MK Prof. Avishai Braverman (Labor), 20% said Perez, 22% Minister of Transport Meir Sheetrit, and 6% Minister of Tourism Avraham Hirchson. 17 % had no opinion.
Among Labor supporters, 49% prefer Braverman, and 40% Perez. Among Kadima supporters, 34% prefer Braverman, 32% Sheetrit, 14% Perez, and 12% Hirchson.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on April 6, 2006
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