Budget session will be smooth: PM

 Expressing confidence that the budget session of parliament would run smoothly, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said the government was willing to discuss and debate all issues on the floor of the house.

"I think dealing with pressure is part of the parliamentary life. I am confident that we have all the numbers that are needed," Manmohan Singh told reporters ahead of the budget session starting Monday.

He added that he was confident that the budget session would run smoothly.
"We are willing to discuss and debate all issues on the floor of the house. I appeal to all the political parties to work together and cooperate in meeting the challenges," he said.

The budget session will begin with President Pratibha Patil addressing a joint session of parliament at 11 a.m.