SINGAPORE : There won't be any public transport fare hike for now, despite the high oil prices.
That's because there have been no applications by the transport operators to increase prices.
But there will be a fare review exercise in May next year.
Senior Minister of State for Trade & Industry Dr Vivian Balakrishnan told Parliament that an increase in oil prices will raise the operating costs of the transport operators.
That's because fuel costs form about 10 percent of public transport operating costs.
Dr Vivian gave the reassurance that the Public Transport Council, which will make any decision on fare increases, will consider both the conditions facing both operators and commuters before making any decision.
MPs also called for more government assistance to help households, especially the lower income, cope with higher public utility bills due to higher oil prices.
Dr Vivian said there're sufficient schemes already in place to do so.
"Our general principle is, power is not subsidized in Singapore. Instead, households should conserve energy and make a serious effort to settle bills. If they really need help, they can turn to the community organizations. We don't want to confuse the role of retailer with the government or community organizations," Dr Vivian Balakrishnan said. - CNA