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MINSK -- Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko issued a decree Monday doubling the minimum wage and he promised more benefits to pensioners and the unemployed.
"Unlike my other addresses to you, this is going to be a most agreeable speech," Lukashenko told parliament, introducing the measure that would bring the monthly minimum wage up to 20,000 Belarussian rubles ($3.30).
Since he took over the presidency in July elections, Lukashenko initiated a series of unpopular economic measures, including the cancellation of state subsidies for bread and milk.
As a result, prices for basic foodstuffs in August grew almost 10 times and salaries fell behind amid monthly inflation of 53 percent. Prices for fuel and energy, mostly imported from Russia, also grew as the national currency lost its value.
While few people actually receive the minimum wage, it serves as a starting point for calculating wages throughout the state sector. The measure is to take effect on Nov. 1.
Lukashenko also said student grants will go up from 10,000 to 26,000 Belarussian rubles (from $1.7 to 4.3), unemployment benefits will be increased in near future.
"I know I will be criticized from the left and the right," Lukashenko said. "They will say I violate anti-inflation measures, or that the measures do not fully compensate for the price increases.
"I recommend the former critics to try and feed their sons on current grants,'' he said.
Lukashenko Doubles Baseline Pay
18 October 1994
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