Maize and animal feed Plans to import 50,000 tonnes

• Says in violation of tender procedures

By Ajith Siriwardana   

Joint opposition MP Dinesh Gunawardane said yesterday the government had planned to import 50,000 metric tonnes of maize and animal feed by violating all tender procedures.  

He told Parliament that the country would lose a huge amount of foreign exchange because of this sudden import.  

The MP asked the Finance Minister whether the ministry had approved such imports.  

State Minister of Finance, Eran Wickramaratne said he would look into the matter and inform Parliament.  

UPFA MP Mahinda Amaraweera said approval from the Department of Animal Production and Health should be obtained for such imports.