The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna continues to defend Minister of Finance Basil Rajapaksa who has not made a statement in Parliament for over three months regarding the current financial situation in the country.
Speaking during a media briefing in Kandy today, Parliamentarian Wasantha Yapa Bandara noted that although Minister Rajapaksa has not made any statements, he has been taking measures to address the current crisis.
MP Yapa Bandara noted that the Finance Minister has also been taking into consideration the suggestions made by MPs in Parliament.
He said making statements in Parliament will not resolve any issues and noted that some MPs are only keen on creating panic among people by making various claims.
MP Wasantha Yapa Bandara said providing a running commentary on shortages of fuel, gas and milk powder will be of no use to the people.
He said the Finance Minister understands the issues at hand and assured that he is working to protect the funds in the Treasury to stabilise the economy.
MP Bandara also noted that the SLPP backbenchers recently held discussions with the Governor of the Central Bank.
He said they were notified of the current financial situation of the country. The Parliamentarian said the country must seek to reduce the amount of funds used for crude oil and energy.
He said due to lack of rain, a large stock of diesel is being used at present.
MP Wasantha Yapa Bandara added that there are no impediments on working with the International Monetary Fund.
He said they are currently obtaining technical assistance from the IMF. MP Bandara said the tourism industry is recovering at present which is a positive sign.
He noted with the decision to float the rupee, people have resumed sending funds to the country using legitimate channels.
Parliamentarian Wasantha Yapa Bandara said therefore they expect the current financial crisis to come to an end by the end of this year.
