(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Parliamentarian (MP) Vasudeva Nanayakkara says the country’s imports have reduced drastically. The Parliamentarian was speaking during the adjournment debate in Parliament yesterday (21st Tuesday).
MP Vasudeva Nanayakkara said imports have fallen 5.5% from 2014 to 2015, claiming that imports have reduced 3.9% during the past 9 months.
JVP Parliamentarian Bimal Ratnayake joining the debate said many conflicts have arisen due to a control price being imposed on rice.
MP Bimal Ratnayake said people are aware of the behaviour pattern of rice in the island, claiming that there is nothing unusual about the situation.
However, the MP questioned the government on its response, stating that the government has allowed the importation of rice and also imposed a control price.
Minister P Harrison taking the floor on a separate note said the government has taken steps to import 100,000 metric tonnes of rice, ensuring the country will not be faced by a shortage of rice.
Minister P Harrison said the mothers at home can tell the difference between imported rice and local produce.
The Minister said steps have been taken to import 100,000 metric tonnes of rice to Sathosa outlets as a safety measure.
He said several countries have promised the President large amounts in rice as donations.
