Sri Lanka could adopt Singaporean model when it comes to MPs perks: PM

Colombo, Feb 07 (Daily Mirror) - While the Opposition came out with allegations against the ruling National People's Power (NPP) on the steps it had taken with regard to Ministerial and MPs' perks, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya indicated that Sri Lanka should adopt the Singaporean model where high remuneration is paid for MPs to make politics an attractive profession, though it would take some time.

MP Ravi Karunanayake, who moved a private member's motion to abolish the pensions for MPs, suggested that Sri Lanka should adopt the Singaporean model. 

“Singapore pays high salaries to all MPs in order to make politics an attractive profession. Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia follow the same model. Sri Lanka should also follow the same. Sri Lanka should do it during this generation. We can do it now through a bit of commitment,” he said.

However Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, who responded said, Sri Lanka can adopt the Singaporean model but it would take some time. 

"We will be able to do it only in the 12th or 13th Parliament as the current task is to change the political culture," she said.