The Kamloops South Thompson MLA has concerns about an investigation into high gas prices called for by the B.C. government.

The BC Utilities Commission will be required to table a report on August 30 about what is causing record gas prices. But during question period today at the BC Legislature, Todd Stone pointed out that report will not be able to look into government taxes and policies.

“That would be like trying to figure out why you’re going broke without looking at your expenses,” Stone says. “Why is this government afraid to let the BCUC look at the government’s taxes and policies as key reasons why gas prices are as high as they are in British Columbia?

“This Premier and this government continue to make it up as they go along the way. Blaming everything, blaming everyone around them for record-high gas prices here in B.C. instead of actually taking action.”

Environment Minister George Heyman did not directly answer the question, but responded that the province has added 2.2 cents of tax per litre of gasoline since taking office, and a UBC study showed that oil companies would simply charge more if government lowered taxes on gas.