No tax which will be a burden on the public assures President

President Maithripala Sirisena says he will not agree to imposing any tax which will be a?burden on the public.

He pointed out that a section of the media had published reports stating that the Government is preparing to increase the Value?Added Tax (VAT).

?I will never allow an increase on any tax which will oppress the poor masses in the country.?If there are any economic experts who present such proposals, I am not ready to get their advice for the economic program of the country and on the contrary I will send them home?, he stated.

The President made these remarks at a function held today to offer best wishes to the people of Pulathisipura for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

He pointed out that the policy of the current Government is to provide the public a relief by giving them economic benefits as a government of the ordinary people.

?The new Government will go forward as a people-friendly Government without turning back?, he further stated.

The President recalled that with the political transformation that took place on January 08, 2015, ending the era of corruption, fraud and family dynasty, they have built a people centric Government.

He further stated that he will fully commit himself with a firm determination in this New Year to fulfill the aspirations of the people and will not allow any room for those forces that damaged the country to regain power once again. (Colombo Gazette)