|
|
 |
 |
| Sunday, 6 January 2002 |
 |
|
 |
News |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
|
Gas price slash over to Ravi's court by Neomi Kodikara The controversy over reduction of gas prices continues with both Shell Lanka Gas Limited and the Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Affairs denying that Shell had agreed to a Rs. 100 price reduction. Earlier, the Department of Internal Trade confirmed that the gas company had, infact after several meetings with Ministry officials, agreed to a Rs.100 price slash. However, Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs told the Sunday Observer that discussions between the executives of Shell and Laugfs Gas companies and Ministry officials, on bringing down the price of gas, was still in process and that no decision has been taken so far. Last week the Minister assured a substantial reduction in the price of LP Gas. Karunanayake said he was still positive of slashing the price and giving the advantage to the consumers, but pointed out that neither the new price scale or the date from when it will come into effect, has been decided. "The companies have showed interest and agreed to announce their decision next week," he said adding that certain, newspapers had published an incorrect news report of the price being slashed by Rs. 100, even before they had come to a final decision. Shell Gas Lanka Ltd., has agreed to give their final decision after taking the crude and LPG forecast for the current year and fluctuation of the rupee against the US dollar into consideration. Laugfs which already sells a 12.5 Kg cylinder of gas at Rs. 100 lower than Shell Gas, has also agreed to announce their decision after discussing with Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and will attempt their best to offer a reasonable reduction. However, sources at the Department of Internal Trade said that it was doubtful of either party offering a significant reduction in prices, as they have to import the liquid petroleum gas which is relatively costly compared to the local price of gas. |
|
News | Business | Features
| Editorial | Security Produced by Lake House |
