Under attack for not announcing policy measures in the interim budget to fight recession, Congress today dubbed as "irresponsible" all criticism on the count saying it was a virtue and not a vice.

"A copy book coalition, a copy book Congress and a copy book Finance Minister, have upheld exemplary democratic traditions and constitutional conventions in presenting a vote on account and not a budget," party spokesman Abhishek Singhvi told reporters here.

Dubbing as "irresponsible" the Opposition criticism, he said the UPA coalition deserves to be applauded for its virtue and not resorting to vice.

"The critics of the vote on account would have shouted from the roof top if the normal budget had been passed," Singhvi added.

To a query why steps were not taken to invigorate the economy, the Congress leader said that two stimulus packages have been announced and oil prices reduced.

"The strong fundamentals of the economy will take it forward for the next three months and the UPA government will present the next budget," he said.