MPs held an extraordinary meeting to discuss four proposals by the opposition ANO movement regarding rising energy prices and across-the-board aid to citizens. The ruling coalition does not agree with the proposals, so the extraordinary session will likely end without a result by rejecting the plan.
The extraordinary session, called at the instigation of the opposition ANO party, began at 8 am. According to Wednesday’s House of Commons complete agreement, the plan was voted on no later than 12 pm. It is expected to be rejected. The floor will be given to MPs with preferential rights, i.e., party and caucus chairmen.
The primary aim of ANO is to push for their exemption from value-added tax, given the ever-rising prices of gas, electricity, and fuel. They also propose using part of the proceeds from the sale of emission allowances to mitigate the impact of costs on households.
ANO has already tried to push through these amendments before but without success. Government MPs, who have a comfortable majority in the House, do not agree. A change of position is not expected even today.
The government has increased the minimum subsistence level by ten percent, which has increased social benefits. People affected by the energy crisis can apply for increased housing benefits. Anyone whose housing costs, including utility bills, account for more than 30 percent of their income is eligible. The government has taken other measures to counter rising fuel prices.