Opposition raises objections of delaying questions in Parliament

The opposition MPs raised objections claiming that timely questions they had submitted to be asked in Parliament are being delayed.

SJB MP Harsha De Silva said some selected questions have been delayed by the government and said it was not good for the Speaker as well.

He pointed out that one question he had submitted in October last year to be asked in Parliament has not been taken up as yet.

Chief Government Whip Johnston Fernando said the government was not running away from questions as alleged.

Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella said there was a procedure in 1980s where MPs were allowed to ask 10 timely questions after the debate of the day and requested the Leader of the House to reintroduce such a mechanism to avoid the delaying of questions.

Speaker Mahinda yapa Abeywardane said it could be discussed at the party leaders meeting. (Ajith Siriwardana and Yohan Perera)