ISLAMABAD: In response to request made by Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) for adjournment from May 19, 2009 to third week of June, 2009, hearing was conducted before Chairman CCP, Khalid A. Mirza on May 15, 2009.

Its counsel Mr Mazhar Jafri represented PSM. The commission has granted only 10 days adjournment upon assurance by the counsel to assist the commission in timely and proper fashion.

Show Cause Notice was issued to PSM on April 29, 2009, for violation of Section 3(3)(g)&(h) for prima facia abusing its dominant position by refusing to deal with purchasers in relation to low carbon steel billets, wherein, PSM was required to appear before the commission on May 19, 2009.

The counsel for PSM submitted that owing to non-availability of the Chairman PSM who is on leave to perform Umrah, the matter may be adjourned as requested. It was also emphasised that PSM is too centralised and as the Chairman is involved in most matters, thus his presence and guidance is needed. The counsel acknowledged that the matter is of public importance, and therefore, the commission may allow more time for proper preparation of the case under the circumstances. The commission has taken a strict view in considering request for grant of adjournment.

The commission observed that it appears somewhat egregious that despite being given adequate time, convenience of the counsel or non-availability on account of personal engagement of the Chairman PSM, were raised as grounds for adjournment. In commission’s view adjournment must be granted judiciously and must be based on sufficient cause.

The commission has taken the view that an applicant cannot ask for a date of its own choice as this is asking for too much indulgence which cannot be claimed as a matter of right. It was not explained by the counsel as to what complex issues, if any, are involved which would require further time for preparation although it was acknowledged by the PSM counsel that it is a serious matter and one which is of public importance. staff report