Concept:The correct phrasal verb must mean “to delay or postpone something.”Explanation:“Put off” means to postpone or delay an action or decision.The sentence means the government cannot delay the decision any longer.Thus, “put off” is the best fit.The other options do not match the meaning here: “put on” means to wear, “put up” means to tolerate or build, and “put back” means to return or reschedule something.Answer:B. put off