KIEV, Jan. 29 - A number of large Ukrainian mining and metallurgical companies have asked the government to cancel a resolution of the Transport and Communications Ministry that increases the tariffs on cargo dispatch and cuts benefits for cargo shipments in private gondolas, as well as requesting that it not come into effect before the issue is discussed with consumers.

"We ask for the withdrawal of the resolution of the Transport and Communications Ministry, so as not to allow it to come into effect, and to prevent an increase in tariffs by a natural monopolist without a preliminary discussion, [to allow the] conduct of consultations and for the opinions of representatives of workers of mining and metallurgical companies to be taken into account," reads a letter signed by the heads of Illich Steel Mill, Dzerzhynsky Steel Mill, Zaporizhstal, Alchevsk Steel Mill, Azovstal, Yenakiyeve Steel Mill, Makiyivka Steel Mill and Metallurgprom Amalgamation, which was also sent to Interfax-Ukraine.