adminThis contradicts recent assertions by other ministers, including those from MDC-T, that Government was discussing the issue.
Speaking at a National Budget consultative meeting here last week, Minister Biti said he was not aware of such plans.
Highly-placed Government sources confirmed that Government was considering the proposal.
“Probably those who announced that know better, but I am surprised when some people make announcements that have something to do with my ministry,” said Minister Biti.
“I am totally unaware of any such proposals and probably those who made that announcement will come to me and also tell me.”
Minister Biti said such a move would need consultations through his office.
Two Government ministers recently confirmed that the duty-free cars were part of efforts to motivate workers through non-monetary incentives.
One of the ministers said Government was also reintroducing a scheme where senior civil servants will get US$7 000 loans to buy cars.
Reliable sources said Government accepted the proposal by the Public Service Commission and was engaging other stakeholders.
On agriculture, Minister Biti said the sector would continue to suffer if farmers did not attain security of tenure.
He said Government could not fund agriculture alone as the banking sector could play a critical role in providing loans to farmers.
This, he said, could only be possible if farmers had collateral, especially long leases.
He said the market should be allowed to determine the price of commodities such as maize, instead of Government setting the producer prices.
Masvingo residents appealed to Minister Biti to give priority to key infrastructure projects during the budget consultative meeting.
They said roads and hospitals must be prioritised in the forthcoming national budget.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter