The Hon. Sajith Premadasa – Leader of Opposition

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, in 2022, due to the fuel crisis faced by Sri Lanka, electricity generation, transport, health and the industrial sector collapsed severely, creating a grave economic crisis. In the present war situation in the Middle East, it is especially necessary to examine whether lessons have been learned, in light of the fuel issues now arising in Sri Lanka.

¶ 02 1. Has the Government conducted a risk assessment regarding potential risks to Sri Lanka’s crude oil and fuel imports—also gas imports—arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East?

¶ 03 Mr. Speaker, a few days ago during a sitting, we highlighted the dangerous situation created by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The Government’s response was that there was no problem and no impact on us. But this is important and needs some detail. I would also like to inform you, Sir. There is a long list connected to this: refined oil, crude oil, LNG, LPG, petrochemicals, fertilizers, other chemicals, metals, industrial materials, food and agricultural trade, grains—grain shipments—etc. We must examine the risks to these arising from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. In truth the Government has not taken this into account. I wish to ask whether a risk assessment has been presented, whether one has been prepared, and whether it will be presented to Parliament.