During the meeting of the Committee on Parliamentary Business on Tuesday (31), under the patronage of the Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, a decision was made to host the debate on the Appropriation Bill for the year 2025 (Budget debate) from 18 February to 21 March.

This was communicated by Parliament Secretary General Kushani Rohanadeera.

Meanwhile, it has also been decided to present the Appropriation Bill for the year 2025 to Parliament for the first reading next week (9).

Accordingly, the second reading (Budget speech) of the Appropriation Bill is scheduled to be held on 17 February and the second reading debate is scheduled to be held for seven days from 18-25 February.

Thereafter, the vote on the second reading of the bill is scheduled to be held on 25 February at 6.00 p.m.

The Committee Stage Debate on the Appropriation Bill is scheduled to be held for 19 days, including four Saturdays, from 27 February to 21 March. It has also been decided to hold the vote on third reading of the Appropriation Bill on 21 March at 6.00 p.m.

During the budget period, the time from 9.30 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. has been allotted for five questions for oral answers, and the budget debate will be held from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

It has also been agreed to allocate the time from 6.00 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. for motions at the adjournment time on all other days, except for 25 February and 21 March, when the votes are taken.