Pakistan, May 16 -- It has become a troubling pattern, whenever there's a chance for relief in fuel prices, the government finds a way to take it back. This time, it's Rs 4.12 per litre; a quiet proposal that could once again shift the burden onto ordinary people.

Instead of passing on the benefit of falling global oil prices, the state appears more interested in satisfying the demands of oil marketing companies, refineries, and dealers. They want more margins, more allowances and the government is ready to oblige. The cost? About Rs 75 billion a year, and the loss of whatever little hope consumers had for cheaper fuel.

Add to this the plan to impose a 3-5 per cent sales tax from July, and what could have been a small economic breather ...