What the people say:

W.K.Lowe-Chilaw:

"The benefits of the budget are now gradually reaching the people. In time to come we will further benefit. As a vehicle owner I feel the positive effect of the reduction of fuel prices. In a similar manner the people have got relief from the price reductions.

Nadeeka Jayamalie - Ethkandure in Elpitiya:

"We have to admit that prices of certain items have been reduced. However, a number of essential items still remain beyond our budget. We are happy that prices of certain brands of milk powder have been reduced. It may be necessary to reduce prices of dhal and other essentials as well".

L. H. Gamini - Elpitiya:

"Shops should be brought under regulations if the consumers are to actually get goods at the reduced prices. The people have not yet gained the full benefit of the reduction of prices.Though fuel prices have come down, prices of related items have not come down accordingly. And certain items, though reduced in the budget, are sold at the earlier price. Prices of such goods as cement remain unchanged."

He said flying squads from the Consumer Affairs Authority should visit villages as well as towns.

Micheal Colin - Mannar:

"The recent price reduction on essential goods has reached the poor people in the district and there is hope among them that their living standards can be improved in future. The price of milk powder packets have come down significantly. This had a real impact on poor people".

M.A. Kader-Moor Road, Mannar:

"Since most of the people here depend on agriculture and fishing for their livelihood ,the recent price reductions of essential goods has given us relief. However some shop owners are still selling gas cylinders at the old price. Legal action should be taken against them."

Appuhamy Ranaweera-mason from Batticaloa

"Whenever the government announces a price increase the prices go up immediately, but when measures are taken to reduce prices they are not willing to implement the reduction immediately. The government has changed but not peoples' life condition. Fares of private buses and threewheelersd are still charging same amount."

Suresh Robert --Batticaloa

"Even though the government announced a reduction in prices of essential goods many venders here are still selling the goods at the old prices. Government authorities should take immediate action against those who are refusing bring down the prices. When we question about the prices at restaurants they say it one has to pay for the high quality."