Parliamentarian Eran Wickramaratne says the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has stated that steps are being taken to increase fuel prices by a figure higher than the recent hike by Lanka IOC.
Speaking during a media briefing the Parliamentarian said there are concerns regarding the quality of fuel at present.
He said during the recent Lanka IOC fuel price revision, a litre of 92 Octane petrol rose by Rs.7 to Rs.184, 95 octane petrol by Rs.3 to Rs.213 and diesel by Rs.3 to Rs.124.
MP Wickramaratne claimed that the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has now sought permission to increase fuel prices above the existing rates of Lanka IOC.
He said another fuel price revision will further burden the entire population.
MP Eran Wickramaratne said if fuel prices are revised, bus fares, three-wheeler charges as well as school van transport fares will increase which will have a bearing on all citizens.
He said industries too will be impacted by another fuel increase. On a separate note he said rulers have a social agreement with the public and therefore they should ensure an uninterrupted supply of fuel, water and electricity.
MP Wickramaratne said although Sri Lanka resorted to bullock carts to travel in the past, motor vehicles are being used at present and therefore the government should ensure required fuel is available in the market.
He said similarly people used lamps to light houses in the past and the government cannot expect people to go back to such lifestyle.
MP Eran Wickramaratne stressed they have commenced a new journey void of corruption.
Commenting on persons involved in corrupt activities, MP Wickramaratne said legal action must be taken against such individuals irrespective of party affiliations.
He said they will support such initiatives, even if action was taken against members of his own party.
