Further discounts for shoppers could be in the pipeline following fresh talks between Government and retailers, Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy has revealed.

The Minister said his Ministry was continuing the initiative that saw some grocery stores agree to cut ten percent off grocery bills for customers who shop on Wednesdays.

The scheme was unveiled in the Throne Speech earlier this month and Government later announced it was holding similar talks with electricity supplier Belco in the hope of reducing household fuel bills.

In last week’s Senate session, Independent Senator James Jardine suggested supermarkets could be willing to offer greater discounts if the scheme was limited to fewer items.

“People are suffering because they can’t afford the basics,” Sen Jardine said.

“Retailers could take just four or five staple products and sell them at very low amounts to assist those in need.”

The question of targeting was also raised by Progressive Labour Party Senator Renee Ming, who noted that even well-off shoppers benefited from the current system.

Although he did not reveal any details, Minister Fahy replied that he wanted to see the programme expanded and was hopeful that further discounts would be made available.

“I think there will be more coming but it is going to take time,” he said.

He later confirmed to The Royal Gazette that other retailers could soon join the scheme.

“As regards on going discussions, the Throne Speech has already made mention of ongoing energy initiatives and we will be starting discussions with other stakeholders in the spirit of shared sacrifice,” he said.