B.C. government to investigate fuel price hikes

VICTORIA (April 20) — Following a spate of sharp increases at the pumps felt by some areas of the province more than others, a three-member government committee will look into discrepancies on gas and diesel prices in British Columbia.

“When British Columbians fill up at the pump, they seem to be paying very different prices for gas and diesel depending on where they live in the province,” said Attorney General Ujjal Dosanjh.

“We need further information about why regional discrepancies in the price of gas and diesel are happening.”

The review will compare retail prices of gas and diesel in regions throughout the province to determine how prices are established, and also to find out if the factors that control prices are fair to consumers. Dosanjh is the minister responsible for consumer protection.

The non-partisan committee conducting the review is made up of MLAs Ed Conroy, Jack Weisgerber and Erda Walsh.
“While the price of crude oil on the world market is the lowest it has been in years, the retail price at gas stations varies considerably across the province,” said committee chair Conroy, MLA for Rossland-Trail.

“The cost of gas and diesel is particularly tough for people who have no choice of transportation other than their own vehicle or who must rely on a vehicle to make a living,” said committee member Erda Walsh, MLA for Kootenay.

The committee will consider submissions from consumer groups, industry representatives, and the public. Research and support services will be provided by the Ministry of Attorney General. The committee will report its findings and recommendations to the attorney general by Sept. 30.