Whole day given to debate motion on price increase

KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat has been given the whole day to debate a motion on price increase, which was tabled by Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad.

The motion, which was tabled pursuant to Standing Orders 27(3), reads:

"That the Dewan is:

Sensitive to the rapid increase in fuel prices, food and other commodities in the global market, which is a global phenomena beyond the control of the Government;

Aware that the phenomena of rising costs has a big negative impact to the people’s well-being and to national economic development;

Understands and supports the Government’s move to restructure the fuel and gas subsidy, which is affecting the Government’s finances, and is unsustainable while fuel prices in the global market continues to escalate, so that the burden on the national economy can be reduced and the subsidy can be distributed more fairly to those who really need it such as the poor, the low, and middle income groups;

Supports the moves implemented by the Government to reduce the burden on the people caused by the escalating prices of fuel, food and commodities, so that the people’s well being can be sustained;

Aware of the Government’s determination and efforts to continue improving economic growth, and its struggle for the national development agenda although the global environment is more challenging;

That the Dewan calls on Malaysians from all walks of life, including workers and industrialists, to remain strong and united in facing the global challenge and to preserve our peace, stability and well-being."

The voting on the motion would be closely watched as some MPs have said any motion could be turned into a vote of no confidence following the announcement by the Sabah Progressive Party's call for such a vote.

A vote on the motion is expected to be carried out later Monday.

TEH ENG HOCK
Star Online
23/06/08