Govt. failed in controlling the prices: State Minister of Consumer Protection

COLOMBO (News 1st); State Minister of Cooperative Services, Marketing Development and Consumer Protection Lasantha Alagiyawanna today (19) said that the Government failed in controlling the prices of commodities despite the Government's intentions being pure. Speaking at the Parliament today (19), the State Minister of Consumer Protection said that the Government tried to control the prices of commodities by setting up price ceilings, however, that attempt failed. Mentioning that he is aware of the gas shortage in the country, the State Minister said that however, the shortage of cement is slightly declining with the removal of the price ceiling. "Under these prevailing circumstances, I don't think a gazette can control these prices. We are determined to carry out these duties with the pure aim of safeguarding our consumers," the State Minister added.