Concept:
The Constitution provides a special legislative procedure for Money Bills because they deal directly with taxation, public expenditure, government borrowing, and financial administration.
To avoid disputes between the two Houses of Parliament, the Constitution designates a specific authority to determine whether a bill qualifies as a Money Bill.
Step 1: Understand Article 110.
Article 110 defines a Money Bill.
A bill is a Money Bill only if it contains provisions dealing exclusively with matters such as:
• Taxation.
• Government borrowing.
• Consolidated Fund of India.
• Contingency Fund of India.
• Public accounts.
Step 2: Identify the deciding authority.
Article 110(3) clearly states:
quote
If any question arises whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of the House of the People shall be final.
quote
This constitutional provision settles all disputes regarding classification.
Step 3: Examine why the Speaker holds this power.
Since Money Bills originate only in the Lok Sabha, the Constitution entrusts the Speaker with the responsibility of certification.
The Speaker's endorsement accompanies the bill throughout the legislative process.
Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options.
• The Finance Minister may introduce a Money Bill but cannot certify it.
• The President gives assent but does not classify bills.
• The Prime Minister has no constitutional certification power.
Conclusion:
The final authority to certify a Money Bill is the
Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Therefore, Option (C) is correct.