The Secretary General of Parliament, Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera, announced that the Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, under the chairmanship of Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, has confirmed the schedule for the 2025 Budget Debate. The debate will be held from February 18 to March 21, 2025.
The Appropriation Bill for the year 2025 will be presented to Parliament for its first reading on January 9, 2025. The second reading of the bill, which includes the Budget Speech, will take place on February 17, followed by a seven-day debate from February 18 to 25.
A key highlight of the proceedings, the second reading debate, will conclude on February 25 at 6:00 p.m. Subsequently, the Committee Stage debate will occur over 19 days, including four Saturdays, from February 27 to March 21, 2025.
The final third reading vote on the Appropriation Bill is scheduled for March 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
During the budget discussions, the period from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. will be allocated for five questions requiring oral answers. The budget debate will then continue from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Additionally, time for motions will be set from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on all days except February 25 and March 21, when the voting will take place.
This structured schedule aims to ensure comprehensive discussions on the national budget, crucial for the country's financial planning for the coming year.
