Trade minister criticises PM subsidies removal

St Lucia trade minister Rufus Bousquet is criticising the suggestion by the country’s Prime Minister to remove costly subsidies on basic food items.



In his New Year address, Prime Minister Stephenson King said he did not believe his administration could continue price support for rice, sugar and flour for much longer.



Mr. Bousquet said the suggestion is unlikely to be approved by the cabinet.



He said he does not foresee a reduction in subsidies in the future.