As a traditional sign of optimism, Finance Ministers in Canada buy new shoes on budget-presentation day.  In recessionary times, the symbolism of opting to shine or repair their shoes sends a message of frugality from on high.

For example, Alberta Finance Minister Doug Horner underlined his austerity budget by shining up a two-year-old pair.  And, former federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty unveiled a thrifty budget in re-soled brogues. The stewards of our taxes wear big shoes and wield their metaphors well.

http://www.cumberlandnewsnow.com/Business/2008-02-25/article-12871/Flaherty-to-unveil-thrifty-budget-in-re-soled-shoes/1

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/redford-promises-responsible-decisions-in-austerity-budget/article9406303/#dashboard/follows/