Minister criticises MPs’ conduct, urges focus on legislation in Parliament

By Saman Indrajith

Justice Minister Dr Wijayadasa Rajapakshe told Parliament yesterday that some MPs wasted their time in Parliament instead of focusing on their legislative duties.

“Some MPs come to Parliament to read novels and newspapers and have telephone conversations. I have noticed this among MPs from both the government and the Opposition. There are MPs on both sides who do not comply with parliamentary regulations. Every MP is bound by the responsibility of maintaining the dignity and decorum of the House. I am baffled by what some of these MPs are doing in the House during morning hours,” the Minister said.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe said Parliament was there to carry out legislative duties and functions and was not a place for MPs to stage shows. “If the MP want to put on shows, they should do so on the road, without bringing this House into disrepute.”

The President added that he would propose making it mandatory to move the House for the day’s business soon after the first sitting hour. He said the House often failed to address the day’s business until 1 to 2 pm.