Readers discuss the impact of the projected petrol price hike

For our latest Facebook question, we asked our readers how the projected petrol price increase would affect them or their business.

Etienne Harris said: “On a lighter note... trading my car for a Karoo Hot Rod, if more wool gets pulled over our eyes.”

Hazel Schreiber replied saying, “You will be able to get rid of the gardening service too.”

Etienne Harris engaged further, saying: “Runs on kikuyu and water, free fertiliser and a trusty watchdog. The deluxe model comes with an umbrella to keep that relentless African sun off your back and the rain at bay.” Yvonne MacKenzie Botha also said she is seriously considering a Karoo Hot Rod.

Margaret Norton Weller said: “Just a few days before the election. I wonder if it will make a difference to the voting.”

Theo Kemp replied saying, “They are so besotted with the ANC it will make no difference. I hope I’m proved wrong. Meanwhile, I think we are all worse off since 1994.” Martin Neethling said: “Use Port Alfred parkrun as a start to walk or run all over our small town.” Jacobus Reinier Grové said: “I will no longer be able to come to Port Alfred every second weekend as it is cheaper to stay in Port Elizabeth for two nights than to drive to PA.”

Jenni Nicholabest said: “Don’t need to be a rocket scientist to know that everything will go up in price. Shops use it as an excuse every time.”

Jessica Lee Brown replied saying, “It’s not an excuse, it’s reality. When petrol goes up, transport cost goes up and prices go up. Transport costs are worked into prices and it’s bound to go up if the petrol goes up, unfortunately.”

Leslie Cusens said: “Business can’t get much worse... petrol goes up 50c, supermarkets put prices up by R1.”

Henri Steppe said: “It will affect everybody. Because of the fuel price increase, everything gets more expensive.”

Jo Styles Worthington-Smith said: “We have a strict budget, so we just have to drive less. And buy less as the prices go up.”