Ban on gas supply to new villages lifted

Federal Minister for Petroleum Dr Asim Hussain told the senate that ban on supply of gas to new villages has been lifted from September 21 under the directives of Prime Minister.Replying to a question from Ismail Baledi, Minister for Petroleum told PSO has to recover over 168 billion outstanding dues from different government departments. Therefore, it can afford no more to supply oil on loan. If this practice is not overcome then we will have to face a disastrous situation. He told Iranian oil is cheaper as compared to other countries and Iran provides us oil at 3 months credit.He said Pakistan Refinery Limited, (PRL) had signed long term agreement with Iran for importing 12000 barrel oil daily but PRL is facing difficulties in opening LC in the face of restrictions imposed by US and European Union on Iran. During question hours Senator Safdar Abbasi said housing minister is not present in the house then who will give reply to his question. Nayyar Hussain Bokhari told the house that no one had been sent to Saudi Arabia for performance of Hajj at government expenses.