Steven N.
A recent poll shows that 63% of Hungarians would prefer to combat high fuel prices by cutting taxes instead of setting a price cap on them.
According to a Pulzus Research survey commissioned by Napi.hu, the majority of respondents agree that the government should do something about the rising cost of fuel, but the vast majority of them would not achieve this by putting a maximum price on it.
The government set a maximum price for 95-type gasoline and diesel at 480 Ft. (US $1.55) per liter on November 15, although premium fuel can be sold at a higher price. The measure is valid until February 15, and Chancellor Minister Gergely Gulyás said in last week’s Government Information briefing that a decision would be made about extending it before it expires.
26% of respondents in the Pulzus Research poll want to extend the policy for another three months, while 14% would prefer a solution that has not yet been considered: offering a discounted fuel coupon for needy consumers. This policy could apply to those for whom public transportation is not a viable option, for example, and it would be difficult for them to get to work without a car.
Only 8% do not want to extend the price cap policy, and 11% are not sure what the solution would be.
The Pulzus Research survey polled 1,000 people, with the results representative of the opinion of the Hungarian adult population. The data reflects the opinion of those over 18 years of age with respect to the demographics of the Hungarian population, balanced according to gender, age, education, and type of settlement. [Telex]
