WESTERN CAPE FUEL LEVY NEEDS CAREFUL CONSIDERATION

July 5, 2006

STATEMENT RELEASED BY:
Mr. Eric Lucas - MP
IFP spokesperson for Minerals and Energy Parliamentary Caucus

The IFP spokesperson for Minerals and Energy, Mr. Eric Lucas, expressed concern regarding the fuel levy proposed for the Western Cape.

Mr. Eric Lucas said:
"The IFP hopes that the MEC has thought this levy through carefully, as with the recent drastic rise in the fuel price, this levy would mean an extra burden on motorist if the implementation is not done properly."

"Also, the scrapping of vehicles licence fees raises concerns with regards to vehicle licence control. The IFP hopes that certain contingency plans have been proposed to curb vehicle licence fraud and to curtail the licensing of unroadworthy vehicles, etc,"

In conclusion, Eric expressed the need for a proper hearing to be held before the implementation of the levy takes place. He said: "A hearing should take place before implementation in consultation with a concentration of the most important factor - the public."

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