Pressure mounts for cap on ethanol in petrol. (Global Report on Australia).(Brief Article)

Australia--In October, the federal government showed signs of bowing to pressure; indicating it would cap the content of ethanol blended with petrol at 10 percent. Prime Minister John Howard and Trade Minister Mark Vaile hinted at a cap after a survey found many service stations were selling fuel with ethanol levels as high as 20 percent.

The automotive industry had warned the government that levels above 10 percent would damage engines and void warranties. The opposition also had been urging a 10-percent cap for petrol accompanied by a label at the pump detailing the e