The UHM this afternoon urged the government to revise the utility tariffs downwards as soon as possible and to retain the eco-reduction scheme.

The UHM - which like the CMTU had reached agreement with the government on the tariffs last November - said in a statement that the oil price had now stabilised itself as a low level. It was true that Enemalta did not buy crude but fuel oil and gas oil (PLATTS MED), but prices generally reflected the price of crude, the union said.

The UHM said it was confident that the agreement reached between the Prime Minister and the trade unions last November had eased the burden of energy prices on consumers and encouraged the people not to waste.

The union also called for more clarity in billing by Enemalta and the WSC.

Meanwhile, the GRTU, which has contested the tariffs in court, is to have a meeting with the Malta Resources Authority on Monday.

The meeting will come three days after the MRA has a meeting with the trade unions on the same subject.

GRTU Director-General Vince Farrugia said that the social partners urged the government to immediately reduce the tariffs during an MCESD meeting today.

Finance Minister Tonio Fenech said a downward revision is expected in March. (see video clip above)