Govt to limit allowances for state officials

With the aim of saving a large amount of foreign exchange flowing out of the country, the government has decided to limit the release of allowances and related expenses for official travel abroad for state sector officials with effect from March 20, informed sources said.

Accordingly, it is reported, this decision will include Ministers, Governors, Members of Parliament, Provincial Ministers and Chairmen of Provincial Councils, Mayors, and Chairmen of Pradeshiya Sabahs.

They said that the decision has been taken in accordance with the circular F.M.01/2015/01 which took effect from May 15, 2015. Accordingly, measures have been taken to limit the allowance from 40 US dollars per day for a maximum of 30 days to 25 US dollars per day for a maximum of 15 days in the case of travelling abroad related to the development of skills such as studies, training, discussions, conferences etc.Similarly, measures have also been taken to limit the allowance from USD 75 per day for a maximum of 15 days to USD 40 per day for a maximum of 10 days when travelling abroad on behalf of the government for official missions or other foreign affairs. It has also been decided to reduce all the payments made to the first and second categories of countries under the five categories, in the payment of composite allowances by 30 per cent.

Furthermore, steps have been taken to completely abolish the 750 USD entertainment allowance that may be provided on the request of a Minister of Ministry secretary leading a foreign delegation, sources added.