Minister says 'no' to gas price hike

Disna MUDALIGE

The price of essential items, such as, gas and milk powder will not be increased in the immediate future, said Co-operatives and Internal Trade Minister Johnston Fernando.

Minister Fernando

He said that permission will not be granted for a gas price hike, despite a request by Laughs Gas Company. He said that this decision was arrived at after analyzing the price level of gas in the world market.

The minister said that the government would ensure that there would be no scarcity of essential items such as eggs and chicken during the forthcoming festive season since the mafia related to these items in the local market has been defeated successfully.

He observed that the government always takes the side of the public as a people oriented government.

He also revealed that the turn over of Lanka Sathosa has increased up to Rs 20 billion from Rs 10 billion within the past year.

The minister observed that Lak Sathosa has gained the status of a price leader in the local market.

The minister was addressing a press conference at the ministry premises yesterday after signing an agreement to open Regional Development Bank (RDB) branches in Lanka Sathosa outlets. Initially Nugegoda, Ratmalana, Kottawa and Kalutara, Lanka Sathosa outlets have been selected. By the end of 2012, RDB branches will be opened in 85 Lak Sathosa outlets including all A grade and A+ grade outlets.

Ministry secretary Sunil S Sirisena, RDB chairman Janaki Kuruppu, RDB general manager R Siriwardena and Lanka Sathosa chairman Nalin Fernando signed the agreement on behalf of the institutions. RDB is catering towards the needs of middle and lower income segments of the society and has 3.5 million customers countrywide.

Responding to a question by a journalist, the minister also said that the government is working on behalf of all citizens whereas the UNP represents the interests of one particular person who financially supports the party.

He said that the UNP objected to the new act of Revival of Under performing and Underutilized Assets to defend Daya Gamage, who is the owner of the Sevanagala Company.