The introduction on Oct. 22 of a 10 per cent general consumption tax (GCT) provoked widespread criticism from the political opposition and scepticism from the business community. (BNCI)
The loss of the party's majority in the upper house in the elections of July 1989, against a background of scandals and the introduction of the unpopular consumption tax, had led to speculation that the party's 35-year period of unbroken rule was approaching its end. (BNCI)
Pay increases for civil servants were allowed for, 6,000 new government jobs would be created, and capital expenditure would rise while government expenditure was to be boosted by a new consumption tax. (BNCI)