New Restrictions on Official Vehicles and Allowances for Ministers

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Secretary to the President has issued a circular to all ministry secretaries, outlining new restrictions on the privileges of Cabinet and Deputy Ministers.

According to the circular:

- Cabinet and Deputy Ministers are now limited to two official vehicles.

- If additional vehicles are used from other state institutions or rented, the responsibility falls on the respective ministry secretary.

- The maximum monthly fuel allowance is set at 900 liters.

- The maximum monthly allowance for office, residential, and mobile phone expenses is Rs 30,000.

- The maximum number of support staff for a Cabinet Minister is 15.

- The maximum number of support staff for a Deputy Minister is 12.

- Family members or close relatives cannot be appointed to the positions of Private Secretary, Coordinating Secretary, Media Secretary, or Public Relations Secretary.