Title: Need to review the prices of petroleum products due to fall in the prices of crude oil in the international market.
SHRI P.K. VASUDEVAN NAIR (THIRUVANANTHAPURAM): Mr. Speaker, Sir, it is a matter of national importance, which we have discussed many times, and that is the issue of recent hike in petroleum prices. The argument was that crude oil prices were going up, but for some time, the Government knows that the prices are coming down; now, they have stabilised at some point. There was a news that petrol and diesel prices may come down following the fall in crude oil prices.
I would like the Minister and the Government to take this House into confidence instead of going to the Press with some statements, some speculation. When the House is in Session, such an important matter should be brought before the House, and the House should be taken into confidence. If at all it is possible to reduce diesel prices, I am emphasising ‘diesel prices’, that should be done immediately.
MR. SPEAKER: You are right that when the House is in Session, no policy statement should be made outside.