Government should be commended for getting shops to give correct change

Readers discuss VAT, small change, the oil price, hospital regulations and more

The foreign assets of the central bank reached Dh326 billion at the end January, up from Dh290.7bn recorded for the same month in 2017. The National

Please refer to your news story Rounding out shops to give correct change (Jan 14). The Government should be commended for keeping the interests of the economically weak in mind, especially those to whom every 20 fils matter.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

The guessing game around the long-term oil price

In reference to your story Opec oil price success may pose a risk (January 12), my view is that it will be back to $45 before the end of this year. I expect the shale producers to show strongly this year.

Moaz Bhutta, India

Hospitals should change birth certificate regulation

I write in reference to your Helping Hands report (A baby born weighing just 800g, a family's struggle to afford her care, January 14). The story stated that, according to regulations at many hospitals, a birth certificate will not be issued until all outstanding payments are settled. Every child deserves a birth certificate as a basic right. This policy needs to changed immediately.

Suzanne Arruda-Wessel, Dubai

VAT has brought change and small change to my pocket

I write regarding Saeed Saeed's column in the Weekend section of the paper, How VAT has revolutionised my Abu Dhabi neighbourhood (January 12). It won't take long for these stores to adapt. Give them two days. It is no big deal.

Scott Albertson, Abu Dhabi

We should not be surprised by who is arming the Houthis

Regarding your story UN says Iran broke arms embargo by sending weapons to Houthis (January 14),  Iran violated the embargo before the conflict began. Where else would the Houthis get the weapons from, except, perhaps, from across the Gulf of Aden?

Victor Crainic, Abu Dhabi

Netanyahu’s India trip should be watched with interest

I write in reference to your story Israeli PM's visit expected to deepen India ties (January 14). Benjamin Netanyahu's trip marks 25 years of Indo-Israeli ties. The countries have enjoyed mutually beneficial relations. No doubt this visit will further improve that bond.

K Ragavan, India