Budget debate: Opposition wants more time

The Opposition, yesterday, urged the government to increase the number of days allotted for the budget debate.

The government advanced the budget debate this year and allotted only 20 days for it, comprising five days for the second reading and 15 for the committee stage or third reading.

However, the United National Party (UNP) and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) said more days should be allotted. This had been discussed at the party leaders' meeting,. It is reported that the UNP had asked for seven days for the second reading and 19 days for the third. The government representatives said they were ready to continue the debate till November 22.  It is now scheduled to conclude on November 18.

A final decision on the subject will be taken at the party leaders meeting today. (Kelum Bandara)