The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, any Member has the right to speak here on the war between Israel and Iran and its impact on our economy, remittances and international trade; it is important. The Leader of the Opposition and others have that right.

¶ 02 Standing Order 27(2) is for raising nationally important questions. The Opposition was given two such opportunities today. The war did not start last night or this morning; the Leader of the Opposition could have decided which was most urgent now, but he did not use that opportunity accordingly. Also, at the adjournment today, Hon. Geetha Herath of Kurunegala had given notice on the Middle East conflict — even during the debate, it could have been raised. Instead, an unnecessary dispute arose.

¶ 03 Mr. Speaker, please also note: the manner some Members behaved was unacceptable. Even if microphones were off, insults directed at the Chair are not suitable for Parliament. The insult was to this House and to the Speaker’s Chair. With such impulsiveness, we cannot run this Parliament. Please, let us all preserve the dignity of the House.