Ottawa - Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for Leeds-Grenville, today applauds the new Conservative government for offering an on-line consultation process in preparation for the federal budget.

"This opens the pre-budget consultation process to all Canadians - including residents of Leeds-Grenville - giving everyone an opportunity to share their views," says Mr. Brown. "This is another example of how the new government is taking accountability and openness to a new level."

Federal Finance Minister The Honourable Jim Flaherty, today launched the on-line process at the Department of Finance web site.

Making government accountable is a key priority of the new government, explains Mr. Brown.

"Over the course of each year I hear from many constituents about budget items that are important to them. Since Canadians voted for change on January 23 I have passed those along to Minister Flaherty," comments Mr. Brown.

"This provides one more opportunity for residents of Leeds-Grenville to make their opinions known directly to the Minister."