The Hon. Sunil Handunnetti - Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development

¶ 01 There is criticism that we are following Ranil Wickremesinghe’s policies. If Mr. Wickremesinghe had been here for 100 days, how many foreign trips would his Ministers have taken, and at what cost? None of our Ministers have done so. In these 100 days, has anyone brought a concrete allegation against any of our Ministers, Deputy Ministers, or MPs—any tender, transaction, or kickback? No.

¶ 02 People understand miracles cannot be delivered in 49 days. We are implementing practical programmes such as Clean Sri Lanka without a rupee of corruption. Members are appointed to COPE; bring any allegations regarding our Ministries and institutions. Even officials note the President conducts meetings from 9.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. We welcome fair criticism, but the public sees the practical difference.

¶ 03 On the mixed Gazette: while we reduced cement prices, the kabook export item was carried over from earlier Cabinet decisions. No one has applied to export kabook. We will change such items going forward.

¶ 04 Through the SCL, 20 of 38 items have seen price reductions—19% over the past year and 8% over the past four months at Sathosa alone. I urge Members to engage with facts. Thank you for the additional time.