May 20, Colombo (LNW): Parliament convened this morning at 9:30 a.m. in line with Standing Orders, with time allocated to various matters of legislative procedure and public accountability throughout the day.
The session, detailed in a statement from the Parliamentary Communications Department, reflects a structured approach to legislative business amid ongoing fiscal and policy discussions in the country.
From 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., the chamber focused on general parliamentary affairs under Standing Orders 22(1) to 22(6), followed by a dedicated hour for Questions for Oral Answers until 11:00 a.m.
This segment offered MPs the opportunity to hold government ministers accountable on a range of pressing national issues. Thereafter, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., MPs were permitted to raise issues under Standing Order 27(2), a provision used to address matters of urgent public importance.
The main legislative focus of the day, however, was the scheduled debate from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on a new Order proposed under the Excise (Special Provisions) Act.
This order is expected to address tax adjustments or regulatory changes concerning the production and distribution of excisable goods such as alcohol and tobacco—sectors frequently linked to public health concerns and revenue generation.
While the details of the proposed excise amendments are yet to be disclosed in full, early indications suggest the debate could involve contentious discussions around balancing public health priorities with fiscal needs.
The opposition has already signalled its intention to question the rationale and potential socio-economic impact of the government’s excise policies, particularly in light of rising living costs and pressures on small businesses.
The day’s session is scheduled to conclude with a 30-minute debate on a Motion at the Adjournment Time, submitted by the Opposition.
