People are not too impressed with what has happened so far in the 100 day programme. I would like to suggest the following which may have a greater impact than what has happened so far.

1. Abolish the subsidized food service in the parliament complex immediately. Replace it with a unit operated by the private sector. May be even a five star hotel, which would sell food and beverages at the current market prices.

2. Abolish the tax free salaries enjoyed by the politicians and government officers.

3. Abolish the pension scheme for MPs. — If at all, retain it for MPs who have served parliament for more than 15 years.

4. With immediate effect charge 12.5% G.S.T. on all sweep tickets sold by the lotteries board.

5. In view of the power crisis shut down all T.V. transmissions from 9 p.m. onwards.

6. Please do not exhibit to the public via Television Ministers and MPs paying curtesy calls on religious dignitaries.

7. Instruct ministers and MPs not to attend frivolous functions such as opening of bridges, presentation of letters of appointments, etc.

8. Publish a list of trips abroad undertaken by all ministers and MPs at the end of each month. State the purpose of visit and the cost. (Private trips need not be included).

9. Before the 100 day period ends, publish a declaration of assets of all ministers and MPs.

10. Introduce a scheme where one could obtain a police report within two days after an accident. Special fee may be charged for the purpose.

11. Liberalise the sale of beer. Let it be served at all restaurants without a permit. Bring down the price of arrack to a reasonable level. This will bring down the kasippu sales.

12. Abolish all ministries connected with religions. They are redundant in a democracy. (It is absurd to have a Ministry of Buddhism alongside with a Ministry of Fisheries in the same cabinet).

13. Abolish with immediate effect all provincial councils. They cost a staggering 40 billion rupees yearly for upkeep. (These are nothing but white elephants).

14. To achieve peace devoid of war, make Sri Lanka a secular country where all religions are considered to be equal as far as the state is concerned. (religion is a very private affair in a man’s life).

15. Make arrangements to give field midwives a three–wheeler instead of the present push cycle.

16. Appoint a minister in charge of toilets — modern sewerage system and safe drinking water.

17. Build 100 modern toilets in the city of Colombo. (there is a one million floating population during the day).

I trust these will be popular measures which will enhance the good standing of the UNF.
Concerned Sri Lankan
Avissawella