petrol price rise is 'huge concern'
3 May 2007

"The latest petrol price increase of 34 cents a litre is a huge cause for concern, particularly because it follows shortly after South Africans were hit by the country's biggest fuel price hike of 68 cents in April," said IFP spokesperson Eric Lucas on Wednesday.

Lucas said the "very aggressive increase" would hurt the poor and it would also lead to an increase in transport costs and food prices.

"The IFP feels that the time has come for government's minerals and energy department to start exploring all ways and means to keep the petrol price down."

The wholesale price of diesel is to go up by 30 cents a litre, and that of illuminating paraffin by 18 cents a litre.

These prices come into effect on Wednesday, 2 May 2007.

Sapa , www.iafrica.com