The work of Parliament has been adjourned until 9.30 am tomorrow (11).
Deputy Speaker Mr. Ajith Rajapaksa announced that it was due to the lack of quorum during the Parliamentary debate on the increase in VAT.
The debate was adjourned after MP Nalin Bandara pointed out that there was no quorum in Parliament to conduct parliamentary business.
Quorum is the minimum number of MPs required to hold a parliamentary meeting. The quorum is 20 members including the presiding member.
When the quorum is not present, if it is brought to the attention of the presiding member, he should arrange for the quorum bell to be rung. Parliament can be adjourned if the quorum is not present at the end of 5 minutes.
Tomorrow, a crucial discussion regarding receiving the second installment of the International Monetary Fund is scheduled to be held between its officials and the Sri Lankan authorities.
The debate regarding the VAT amendment bill, which has a significant impact on the state revenue, will be debated in Parliament today, due to the lack of minimum participation of the MPs, the VAT debate has to be postponed to tomorrow.
