Fuel price decrease welcomed, but what about paraffin?

September 4, 2006

STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MR. ERIC LUCAS - MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON ON MINERALS & ENERGY


Mr. Eric Lucas, the IFP spokesperson for Minerals & Energy, today said: "The latest fuel price adjustment comes as good news to all South Africans, as a reduction in the price of fuel will provide much needed relief to all of us".

Further, Mr. Lucas said: "We, the IFP, as however still concerned about the effect that the political situation in the Middle East and the strength of the Rand against the US Dollar, will have on the price of fuel in the future".

"Our greatest concern, however, is that the price of paraffin, which is still used as a source of energy by many people, remains too high. We believe that an investigation needs to be conducted into this matter so as to ascertain the reasons for continued high price of this fuel which is essential to the lives of the many poor people in our country".

Mr. Lucas concluded by saying: "I therefore hope that the petroleum organisations as well as the relevant authorities from government look into this matter urgently and find a solution as soon as possible".



FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr. Eric Lucas - MP: 082 557 2481
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848