The Chamber for Small and Medium Enterprises - GRTU yesterday met the political movement Azzjoni Nazzjonali to discuss the impact of the new utility tariffs on businesses.
AN leader Josie Muscat said his party was particularly concerned about the effect the new rates would have on employment and was ready to support the GRTU in defending the rights of private enterprises.
The GRTU said the government's figures were not adding up and the global figure of €305 million that Enemalta said it needed to collect should be reduced.
GRTU director general Vince Farrugia said the programme of investments should not be paid for completely by consumers.
The GRTU considered the retroactive nature of the tariffs, without the meters first being read, illegal.