53% of Singaporeans believe Budget 2014 initiatives will produce better jobs

And hike up wages as well.

Singaporeans surveyed in the annual post-Budget telephone poll by REACH -- the lead government agency for gathering feedback from and engaging with citizens -- showed their support towards economic and taxation measures presented in the recent Budget 2014.

About 1 in 2 polled (53%) agreed that Budget initiatives to help businesses restructure and improve productivity will result in better jobs and higher wages for Singaporeans.

More than 3 in 5 respondents (64%) agreed with the move to raise taxes for liquor, tobacco and betting duties to help avoid excessive consumption in these areas, whilst 1 in 5 polled (19%) disagreed.

According to REACH, contributors recognised that help rendered to businesses through the Budget initiatives will continue to be useful, in particular, the extension and enhancements made to the Productivity and Innovation Credit scheme. However, some business owners have also called for more Government assistance in managing business costs. On the increased duties for liquor, tobacco and betting, similar sentiments were observed on REACH platforms, where the majority of those who gave their feedback said they were in favour of the increased taxes, while others felt it would have a limited impact in curbing consumption amongst heavy users or consumers.