Trinamool to continue opposition to FDI in retail

New Delhi, Aug 10 (IANS) Amid efforts by the Congress to build consensus within the ruling coalition on the issue of allowing foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail, a Trinamool Congress leader has reaffirmed the party's opposition to the move.

Minister of State for Tourism Sultan Ahmed said the party was steadfast in its stand on opposing foreign direct investment in multi-brand retail.

"No compromise (on our stand)," Ahmed told IANS.

He said the party was also against privatisation of pension fund.

Ahmed, however, said the party could take a different stance on moves to liberalise FDI norms in the aviation sector.

"Aviation is a different issue," he said.

Sources said Congress leadership had sought support of coalition partners to allow FDI in multi-brand retail trade at the first meeting of the United Progressive Alliance coordination committee Wednesday.

The Trinamool Congress was not present at the meeting. Party leader Mamata Banerjee has opposed government moves to bring FDI in retail.