The Hon. S.M. Marikkar

¶ 01 They said vegetables and even grass would have to be imported. The President once said only the rice needed for the tourism industry would be imported and not a single extra grain. Before the election, Hon. Namal Karunaratne said, “Is it 10 lakh metric tons of rice or 5? Big rice mill owners are hiding stocks. Why can’t the Government buy them? Eighty per cent is with large millers, the rest is scattered in small lots. We know how much paddy you all bought. When our Government comes, we will immediately take that stock.” But today the opposite is happening; they are crying in front of the rice millers. Worse, the controlled price is set by adding another Rs. 10 on top of the black market price of Rs. 180. The same happened to cement. These lies are now becoming clear to the people.

¶ 02 They claim they are expanding the economy and doing everything. We know you cannot bring investments overnight. But up to now, beyond traditional workers’ remittances, tourism receipts and export income, not a single new investment agreement has been signed. At the very least, you have not maintained basic international support programmes. Recently, you said there was no need to pay debt until 2028. Even if that is said, what debts are not payable until 2028? Our total debt is about USD 96 billion; out of that, only the USD 12.5 billion principal of international sovereign bonds is subject to the standstill. Interest on that must be paid. Next, interest and principal on bilateral loans must be paid. Interest and principal on domestic market borrowings must be paid. Now, from reserves, you plan to spend about USD 1 billion to allow vehicle imports. Allowing vehicle imports is fine, but you must also ensure debt sustainability. If you are to avoid paralysing the economy while managing debt service, what new revenue streams have you created? During the campaign, you mocked USD 41 billion as a small sum that could be paid off with a “tuk.” Another said a friend in Canada would send millions. Some said a new diaspora would send USD 100 each. Those people are nowhere to be found on Facebook even, Hon. Deputy Speaker. Now you are on your own.

¶ 03 We do not wish to see the country collapse, nor will we sabotage the Government just to gain political power. But something must be done. Every MP scolds us now; scolding got you power, so stop crying and get the job done. We will help. We will do whatever we can. But admit that lies were told on the campaign stage. You said you would change the IMF agreement. You are carrying it out as is. You did not reduce PAYE tax as promised. You did not reduce water or electricity bills. You did not increase interest on senior citizens’ fixed deposits; you increased the withholding tax. What about prices? You promised to remove taxes on essential food, education and health. As public representatives, we must remind you of your promises; that is our duty. Helping to get done what you promised, reminding you of it and pushing so the public benefits from it is also cooperation. We expect at least when the Budget comes, you will do these things.

¶ 04 You are bringing the Budget ahead of local government elections, so we think you will bring a relief Budget.

¶ 05 Hon. Member, your time is up now.

¶ 06 Okay, Hon. Deputy Speaker. At least in this Budget, implement those measures and fulfil the pre-election promises. The people who brought you to power are distancing themselves because of broken promises. Please ensure people’s right to live: reduce bills; reduce taxes; and create the environment for children to learn and for families to live happily. I conclude my speech.

¶ 07 Thank you very much.