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Govt optimistic over planned B40 fuel subsidy

Jul 14, 2019

The govt is still optimistic that the targeted fuel subsidy for the B40 group can be implemented by the end of this year. 

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry says it's still working on the mechanism for the scheme.

It adds, officials have been meeting with various stakeholders, including oil companies, petrol station operators and consumer groups over the matter. 

A Cabinet paper will soon be submitted for approval.  
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The bill to abolish the mandatory death penalty is expected to be tabled in Parliament this October. 

De Facto Law Minister Datuk Liew Vui Keong says this will happen once the govt decides on the best alternatives to capital punishment.

A special task force is being set up to look into this, and a decision could be made soon. 

Currently, there are 11 offences that carry the death penalty, including murder and terrorism.

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Dozens of New Zealanders have voluntarily surrendered their guns to the govt.

It's under a newly-launched buyback scheme to rid the country of semi-automatic weapons, that was announced following the Christchurch mosque attacks in March. 

The shooter had used a number of military-style semi-automatic rifles in the attacks, which killed 51 people.