Are you given less petrol than what you paid for?

It seems this issue has made a considerable impact on readers. Here is another letter from Ian Vella, PRO, Enemalta Corporation:

'Denise Xuereb has written that according to spot checks she carried out at a number of petrol stations, using a five-litre measuring container, petrol pumps are giving out 10 per cent less fuel to motorists.

1. By law, checking the calibration of station fuel pumps is the direct responsibility of the Malta Resource Authority (MRA). Nevertheless until such time as the MRA equips itself with the necessary equipment and manpower, Enemalta Corporation, as the supplier of fuel to petrol stations, carries out regular checks to ensure fair trade.

2. Enemalta Petroleum Division technicians check station pump calibration on all petrol stations on a regular basis. During the calibration check, the numbered seals on the pumps are checked to ensure that pumps have not been tampered with.

3. Calibration of the pumps is carried out according to a standard procedure set by the MRA. The aim is to protect both the motorist and petrol stations and only a volume tolerance of plus or minus 0.5 per cent using specialised calibration cans is permitted.

4.) We invite Ms Xuereb to pass any of her findings so that we can verify the information she supplies, and if need be take appropriate action. Enemalta Corporation invites readers to report any suspected irregularity on freephone number 8007 2224.'