GOVERNMENT RULES OUT SHUTDOWN OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES OVER FUEL PRICES

While some countries are taking various measures to reduce fuel consumption amidst sky-rocketing fuel prices due to the tension in the Middle East, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said yesterday Sri Lanka is not expecting to reduce fuel consumption by contracting economic activities.

- By AJITH SIRIWARDANA

• Government expecting to maintain continuous fuel supply in the country

• Fuel prices were increased to reduce consumption

• New fuel stocks had to be purchased at higher rates after depleting stocks in the country

• Govt. discussing to provide short-term concessions if fuel prices in the world market increases

• The government is not expecting to reduce fuel consumption by closing a section of the economy

• Even Saudi Arabia has increased fuel prices by 4 percent.

The Minister told the weekly briefing to announce Cabinet decisions that the government is expecting to maintain continuous fuel supply in the country.