(October 19, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) If the GSP Plus is lost, another 100,000 families would be without a means of income, says Ranil Wickremasinghe, Leader of the Opposition. Addressing an interactive public meeting in Habarakada yesterday, the leader of the United National Party said that he too would take the economy forward in the same way presidents J. R. Jayewardene and R. Premadasa had done.
The meeting was attended by a large crowd including several UNP MPs.
“If the GSP Plus is lost because of this government, then another 100,000 families will be without a means of income. The UNP, Mano Ganeshan's party, Mangala Samaraweera's party and several other parties have held discussions to form a single front,” Mr. Wickremasinghe said.
The new front would not be restricted to political parties but would include civil society as well, he observed and added that they were looking towards forming a single front or alliance with political parties, civil society organisations that think about the country and go in for an election through the alliance.
“This is because the tenure of parliament will conclude by April. Work needs to be done before this. The working committee has given its complete consent towards this. We are having discussions with the others based on the consent received by the working committee.
“Just as President Premadasa took the economy forward even with the war in the North and East in 1989, I will also take this economy forward. Just as President J. R. Jayewardene developed the economy in 1977, I too will develop the economy. The UNP's strength is developing the economy.
“In 1965, Dudley Senanayake did this. D. S. Senanayake also did it. Therefore do not fear. It's not only about developing the economy, but also enabling the people to have money in their hands. By developing the economy, corruption can be halted. It is not only about stopping corruption, we will also take action against those involved in corruption,” Mr. Wickremasinghe said. -Sri Lanka Guardian
Home Unlabelled If GSP plus is lost, 100,000 families be destitute: Ranil
If GSP plus is lost, 100,000 families be destitute: Ranil
By Sri Lanka Guardian • October 19, 2009 • • Comments : 1
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The fact of the matter is GSP PLUS will not be lost. This is typical EU - passing time with indecision.
At the moment, they are weighing options and consequences.
Some may argue, if people lose their livelihood, they will sail towards the western capitols. This is strong enough to shake the EU politicians to their core.
Plus, the more they hurt the government, the more it will incline towards characters that the West particularly are not fond of.
So, striking a balance is of paramount importance. The EU may try carrot-and-stick approach. But the man in the hot seat is not renowned for buckling under pressure.
So, Mr Wickramasinghe's warning is a bit politically immature; but got good sound bites.
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