Since the A/L examination will be held from January 23 next year, it is not possible to either increase electricity tariffs in January or to impose power cuts during the examinations, Education Minister Susil Premajayantha said.
He said this in response to a question raised by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa in Parliament yesterday (01).
Accordingly, the Minister said that he will refer this matter to the Cabinet and the Ministry of Power.
I respect the Act; not the minister
Meanwhile, Public Utilities Commission Chairman Janaka Rathnayake said yesterday that although the Cabinet approved the increase in electricity tariffs, the Public Utilities Commission is not bound to implement the decision.
He said that he respects the Act and not the minister.
“This is like a conflict of opinion. The minister has said that I am an old friend. That friendship remains. I do not respect the minister. I respect the Act. Minister’s speeches are not important. I also say what I want. I believe the right thing should happen at the end of the day,” he said.
(Video : Newsfirst)
