• Says only final report can be  submitted 
• Embroils in an argument with UNP leader

By Kelum Bandara

Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa admitted at the All Party Conference yesterday that the International Monetary Board( IMF) had submitted a draft on the economic situation of Sri Lanka, and the final report would be shared with all concerned once ready.

 He said this in response to a request by United National Party(UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe at the meeting, Mr. Wickremesinghe asked for the report. This led to an argument between him and the Minister. However, he declined to share the draft.

Upon insistence by the UNP leader, Mr. Rajapaksa admitted that only a draft had been submitted.

Mr.Wickremesinghe said,” You admit now that there is at least a draft. Earlier, it was also denied,”

The Minister responded,” the draft is anyway given. It is submitted with our views. It will be considered by the IMF board to work out the final report. Then, we will share it with you. You know the IMF procedure more than me,”

Mr. Wickremesinghe hit back saying, “it is not for me only. It has to be shared with the parties”.

Mr. Wickremesinghe- “You admit now that there is at least a draft. Earlier, it was also denied,”
Minister Basil Rajapaksa- The draft is anyway given. It is submitted with our views. It will be considered by the IMF board to work out the final report. Then, we will share it with you. You know the IMF procedure more than me,”
Mr. Wickremesinghe- “it is not for me only. It has to be shared with the parties”.