|
Government to look at petrol subsidy after decision on diesel. |
|
Monday, 28 April 2008 |
JOHOR BARU, 28 Apr (The Star) -- Restructuring the petrol subsidy will be next on the agenda after the Government decides on the new diesel prices in six weeks.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad said that all parties had been asked to submit proposals on how to manage and control the fuel subsidy scheme.
“I hope that we can choose the most practical, economical and effective proposal within the next six weeks,” Shahrir said, adding that he had already started looking into various suggestions.
Shahrir said the ministry decided to begin with restructuring diesel subsidies as it involved a smaller group of consumers.
“If the scheme is successful, we can also apply it to petrol,” he added at a press conference after attending the Young Malaysians Movement annual general meeting held at Taman Ungku Tun Aminah.
In the existing diesel subsidy scheme, the pump price of the fuel is RM1.58 but bus operators are given subsidy cards where they can pump diesel at stations at a subsidised rate of RM1.48. Fishermen pay RM1 per litre of diesel.
Fuel and gas subsidies now cost the government RM33bil a year.
In his speech, Shahrir reminded youths to lead a moderate lifestyle so that it would be easier to face the challenges ahead, including increasing petrol and food prices.
“Our parents and ancestors put us where we are today, a nation that is almost economically advanced.
“We think that it’s the responsibility of the Government to provide us with the subsidies but we must remember that the money comes from the people too,” he said.
Asked if he would contest for the vice-president’s post in Umno, Datuk Shahrir said: “I have not thought about it yet.” |
|
Last Updated ( Monday, 28 April 2008 )
|
