The work to rule which commenced on Wednesday has been wholly ineffective with no disturbance caused to the community by way of a scarcity of petrol, interruptions to power, water or movement of imports and exports.

Minister of Petroleum and Petroleum resources Development, A.H.M. Fowzie told the Island Financial Review that the workers who are protesting against delayed salary increments have conceded defeat in their attempt to embarrass the government. They have issued a release that the first day of the protest should be counted from yesterday (Thursday) and not on Wednesday when it commenced. The government has faced the challenge and come victorious. he added

A representative of the Sri Lanka Nidahas Sevaka Sangamaya, attached to the office of the Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation , requesting anonymity, said " the service provided today is better than on a normal day"

Meanwhile , Minister of Water Supply and Drainage, A.L.M. Athaullah was involved in discussions with a group of Water Board employees at the Treasury late last morning, according to reliable sources. However details of the meeting were not available as the Minister could not be contacted at the time of going to press.