The federal government is prepared to usher in a budget deficit next year, but one economist at the University of Saskatchewan doesn't think the government's explanation holds water.

In yesterday's Throne Speech, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said (through Governor General Michaelle Jean) it would be irresponsible of the government to try keeping the books balanced in the midst of a global economic crisis.

Eric Howe says increased government spending is not the ticket out of a financial tailspin, but notes every government has its motives.

"What they want to do is spend money on the things they regard as priority and not spend money on things they don't regard as priority."

In any case, Howe says Saskatchewan shouldn't be concerned with Ottawa's deficit plans. Howe says the province is in a solid position to not only weather the storm, but to benefit from it as well.