Thai court won't halt increase in gas prices

The court yesterday completed a hearing into a complaint against the prime minister and the cabinet over the government's approval of increases in the prices of compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

After four hours, the court rejected the request for an injunction jointly lodged by Senator Rosana Tositrakul and Saree Ongsomwang, secretary to the Foundation for Consumers.

The court said the evidence provided by the complainants was insufficient for it to issue an injunction against the gas price increases.

In addition, the injunction, if approved, would affect the state's energy management administration.

However, a separate court case to consider whether the decision to raise gas prices is lawful will continue.

The cabinet approved a price rise for CNG of 50 satang a kilogramme from 8.50 baht and an increase in the LPG price by 75 satang a kilogramme from yesterday.