Iran plans to cut subsidised gasoline quota
Reuters / Hashem Kalantari & Fredrik Dah
08-Oct-2009 (2 comments)

TEHRAN, Oct 8 (Reuters) - Iran plans to nearly halve the amount of gasoline that motorists can buy at a heavily subsidised price, state television reported on Thursday, in what could be a politically controversial proposal.

It quoted Oil Minister Massoud Mirkazemi as saying that under the plan, to be considered by parliament next week, the quota of subsidised gasoline would be reduced to 55 litres per month from 100 litres now.

The proposal comes as the United States and its European allies explore ways of targeting fuel imports into Iran if it continues to press on with its nuclear programme.

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Majid Zahrai

Going green by force may strengthen Green Movement

by Majid Zahrai on Thu Oct 08, 2009 10:30 AM PDT

Even before the June uprising, Iranians had not reacted well to earlier fuel rationing plots.  The past few times the government tried to cut subsidies and curb fuel consumption there were spontaneous demonstrations and mayhem.  This time around it is possible that unhappy consumers could join street protests against the government, increasing the number of people on the streets.  In anticipation of possible sanctions which could include Iran's fuel imports, they'd have to think long and hard about policies which might push them into a corner with the already disenchanted Iranians.  This could quite possibly be the straw that breaks the camel's back.


Balatarin
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capt_ayhab

blessing

by capt_ayhab on Thu Oct 08, 2009 01:12 PM PDT

This is perhaps blessing in disguise for the green movement which might give it another momentum. At the same time , not to be taking side of IR, but this might lessen possible effect of petroleum sanctions if there is going to be one.

 

-YT 


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