Every day there is an announcement of increase of prices of goods. Every day there is an announcement t of increase in service charges. The increases in prices and service charges are so high that the people do not know what to do.

The price of fuel is increased quit frequently giving an excuse that the price in the world market increases. Now the price of gas has been increased by Rs. 213. This came into effect with September 1st.

All these price increases take place, while the Minister of Consumer Affairs frequently assures that the prices are under control. Certain Ministers quote the Central Bank report and maintain that the economy of the country has progressed. But in reality it is not so.

The inflation is on the increase. It is announced that the inflation rate for the month of August was 17.3%. Although the Central Bank informs that it is only temporary the reality is different. People have to pay more as prices for commodities or as charges for services.

Following the increase in the fuel prices, the bus fares go up. Transport cost goes up. These are all a chain of events. It is by increasing investment including foreign investment and developing industrial and agircultural sectors that the national income can be increased. The quality of the life of the people can be raised.

But the sorry plight is that due to the war situation in the north east and the human rights violations in the country, the foreign investments have dropped. Tourist arrivals have dropped.

Therefore, the government must take steps to bring down the prices of essential commodities and the cost of living in this country.

An English translation of the Editorial in Thinakkural, a Tamil daily, based in Colombo

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