Moldy Peaches

Nobody likes to see gas prices fluctuate like a yo-yo, but do the majority of Canadians really believe that nationalization of petroleum resources and gas companies nationalized is the answer. Apparently, yes, according to a new poll done by Leger Marketing.

The Leger Marketing telephone survey of 1,500 people was conducted between Aug. 24 and Aug. 31, the bulk being done before the devastating effects of hurricane Katrina were felt. Gas prices have jumped around 25 cents a litre since the storm that battered the U.S. Gulf Coast.

This week, for example, prices in Montreal and Halifax averaged $1.38 a litre but the regulated price in St. John's, Nfld., was $1.48. In Toronto, prices stood at about $1.35 but were also seen at around $1.22. Western drivers tanked up for between $1.08 to $1.13 in Edmonton and between $1.07 to $1.14 in Calgary.

Quebeckers, not surprisingly, were the strongest supporters of resource nationalization at 67 per cent, followed by residents of the Atlantic provinces at 53 per cent, Ontarians at 45 per cent and British Columbia at 42 per cent.

Forty per cent of respondents on the Prairies and 36 per cent of Albertans were in favour. Among those opposed, Albertans led the way at 49 per cent followed by British Columbians at 39 per cent.

Quebec, again, led in support for nationalization of oil companies, with 61 per cent in favour, followed by the Atlantic provinces (46 per cent). Alberta was most opposed at 59 per cent, followed by the Prairies (49 per cent), B.C. 46 per cent and Ontario, 41 per cent.

In the throw away question category: Most of the respondents — 79 per cent — suggested they would like to see taxes on gasoline cut, although federal and provincial governments have made it clear that is unlikely. What is surprising here is that the number was significantly higher.

Clearly Canadians are frustrated by the high prices being charged at service stations around the country. North American residents are just now getting a taste of what the price of gas is like in most European countries. Motorists’ best accept this new reality since there appear to be too many convenient factors keeping the price of oil high and production too low.

Accidental deliberations has a good analysis of the situation.