Is the President the Defence Minister?

Colombo (News 1st): It was revealed at the media briefing today (Jan 23) that the recruitment of graduates into public service will begin from March 1st. Applications can be handed over to the divisional secretariats from March 1st and all of the graduates will be given leadership training, and training to serve in the post that they were recruited for a period of 6 months. The Cabinet spokesperson Minister Bandula Gunawardena also clarified facts on the budget proposal to be presented. He noted that under the vote on account funds have not been allocated for capital expenditure. He added that under the constitution despite what funds we want can be allocated mainly for day to day expenses. Therefore, he said they need to wait until a new budget is presented. He pointed out that by May a budget proposal will be presented by a new government. It was revealed at the cabinet meeting that the previous government had not paid contractors for projects implemented during their regime. The Minister noted that they have implemented Gama Naduma, Gamperaliya and other programs without paying the contractors. He said the cabinet paper presented by Minister Johnston Fernando for the payment of billions to large scale road development projects was approved by the cabinet. The Minister noted that the President has instructed secretaries of all ministries to prepare a document to reveal to the country the money due to be paid by the previous government. The government is also preparing to introduce a free trade zone to allow higher education institutions for foreign students.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena: The Sri Lanka Board of Investment will create a free trade zone. The Board of Investment will provide all tax concessions and other benefits for internationally acclaimed higher educations institutions, universities and advanced technology institutions for foreign students, not for Sri Lankan students. The payments must be made with any currency other than Sri Lankan rupees. Journalist: While there is a peaceful environment, the President has issued a gazette notification to keep the peace in certain areas? Minister Bandula Gunawardena: Ensuring national security is the responsibility of the President. He will take the necessary security measures as per the information that he receives and issues the relevant gazette notifications. Even I am not informed of state secrets. The Cabinet of Ministers is also not informed. Journalist: There is no Minister, it is only a deputy minister. Minister Bandula Gunawardena: When there is no minister appointed, all the powers of that minister are vested with the President as per the constitution. Journalist: Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa can be appointed. Minister Bandula Gunawardena: That is the decision of the government.