Senate panel seeks halt to Discos privatisation, says matter must go to Council of Common Interests

A Senate sub-committee on devolution has urged a halt to the privatisation of Discos, the power distribution companies, according to Dawn. The panel told the Privatisation Commission to refer the matter to the Council of Common Interests, warning of a privilege motion if the process moves ahead without fresh approval.

The sub-committee argued that Discos carry out provincial functions, so the arrangement must either win approval from provincial assemblies or be handed to the provinces. It also called for transparency, citing doubts raised by the Steel Mills and PIA sales, and asked that all matters affecting provinces go before the CCI.

Chairman Zamir Hussain Ghumro also put federal spending at about Rs19 trillion against Rs20 trillion in total tax and non-tax revenue, calling for a constitutional audit of the government's size. He further directed the Auditor General and the Controller General of Accounts to submit audited spending on CCI and provincial matters over the past 16 years.