The Nationalist Party today said that while international oil prices are tumbling, the Maltese population has not benefitted from a reduction in fuel prices.

In a statement, the Party said that oil prices have fallen below the 50 dollar mark per barrel, and the Maltese and Gozitan people should benefit from a corresponding reduction in fuel prices.

When Brent oil cost 123 dollars per barrel, unleaded petrol in Malta cost €1.38 per litre and diesel €1.31 per litre, yet with prices now below 50 dollars per barrel, unleaded petrol costs €1.35 per litre and diesel €1.26 per litre, the PN said.

It said the government is clearly stealing from the people and this month’s reduction in gas prices was just a distraction.

Not only is the Maltese population paying higher fuel prices than the rest of Europe, it also has to consume more fuel to the drastic increase in traffic.

Malta is losing money due to the government’s mistaken policies in the energy sector, such as the building of a new power station and the loss of €14 million brought about by a hedging agreement with the Azeri company Socar.