But only recently has it started to propose cutbacks to embassies around the world.

Some officials are proposing plain old cutbacks dressed up in talk about prompting self-reliance.

This year, the governor is poised to propose cutbacks again, his aides said.

Mayor Rudolph Giuliani has also proposed cutbacks in Medicaid and programs that help the mentally ill.

Administration officials said they also intended to propose cutbacks in Medicare payments to hospitals.

Still, the President has not proposed cutbacks, as Mr. Reagan did.

Congressional committees have proposed substantial cutbacks in Medicaid and Medicare, the nation's largest health insurance programs, which together cover more than one-fourth of all Americans.

Other administration officials said Mr. Bush would propose cutbacks in Medicaid, Amtrak subsidies, housing assistance and community development programs, among others.

In New Jersey, Gov. Jim Florio, at the start of a four-year term, has proposed $1.4 billion in tax increases and sharp cutbacks in spending.

Last week, Mr. Koch proposed selective cutbacks and taxes to meet this year's projected deficit but retained his plan to increase the police force.