Price watching

Mention was made by a political party recently of a watchdog for price increases (in the future). Such a watchdog for food and everyday consumer products should be set up now. Prices are already increasing and not by 1c or 2c.

A popular brand of light butter, light cheese slices and a chocolate drink have gone up appreciably in the last few weeks.

A health product, oat flakes packed in Malta, has also increased in price. Doubtless the importers/producers are preparing for the euro changeover even faster than the administration. The government should, with immediate effect, open an office to receive complaints about such price increases and obtain justification for these increases.

Moreover, the minister responsible should rush through Parliament price regulation legislation ordering importers and producers to give notice of increases in prices with supporting evidence of the need for such action.