Penza, 24 September 2012. PenzaNews. Supporters and members of the Communist Party of Russia held a protest action in Penza on Saturday, September 22 within the nationwide action against the increase of utility rates.

According to the regional department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, the event, which lasted for about an hour, was attended by 80 people, and according to the press service of the regional committee of the Communist Party of Penza — about 300.

Protesters came with posters saying “No increase in rates,” “Housing costs under people’s control,” “Like water, like payment,” and others.

Advisor to the Chairman of the Central Committee of Communist Party on Economic Affairs Lyubov Shvets, a representative of the Central Committee of the Russian Communist Party Andrei Chernovtsev, and candidates for deputies to the Legislative Assembly of the region participated and spoke out at the protest action.

At the end of the action public resolution was made, which, in particular, demanded to take control of the work of communal services, to “freeze” utility rates and food prices, as well as to introduce a progressive income tax on large owners.

According to the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in the Penza region, no disorderly conduct or emergency situations were permitted during the protest action.