Hungary threatens to face problems with the European Commission over discrimination against foreigners at gas stations. A spokeswoman for the Brussels government confirmed on Thursday that a new regulation that has been in force since Friday is currently under investigation.
The new regulation, introduced overnight to avoid a potential rush if a longer transition period were to come, stipulates that the legal cap on petrol and diesel prices will only apply to Hungarian motor vehicles. All other drivers have to pay the market price, which is on average 40 percent higher than the “official” price. However, the regulations of the government under Prime Minister Viktor Orban also provide for exemptions for vehicles registered in countries where similar limits apply.
Brussels is now investigating whether Hungary is violating EU rules that prohibit discrimination against consumers on the basis of nationality or residence. Restrictions in the internal market can only be justified by compelling reasons, according to the spokeswoman for the Commission. These may relate, for example, to public order, health or safety. “They cannot be justified on economic grounds,” she said.
The EU Commission heard about the measure through the media
Should the Brussels authorities come to the conclusion during their investigation that the government in Budapest is violating EU law, they could start a so-called infringement procedure against Hungary. Ultimately, there could be a lawsuit before the European Court of Justice and a fine. The spokeswoman said the measure had been learned from the media.
Source: Krone
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