Azwer still in Chairman's Panel

UPFA National list MP A. H. M. Azwer has denied reports in certain newspapers that he had been removed from the Chairman's Panels of presiding MPs.

He has also requested the Speaker to refer this matter to the privileges committee together with another mater concerning an article which appeared in the Engal Desam of November 15 which the MP claimed defamatory of him and Deputy Minister Abdul Cader. Azwer also took the chair on Friday 7 at adjournment time he said. Hon. Speaker, thank you for permitting me to raise this issue as a matter of Privilege.

During the last few days, there have been reports published in certain newspapers purporting to indicate that you have given an order to remove me from the Chairman's Panel. You have not done so and you told me so when I saw you in the Chambers.

This is not only a violation of the privilege ensured to every Member of the House but also an infringement upon the Speaker's authority.

How could anyone put words into the mouth of the Hon. Speaker and make it a news report quoting unreliable sources?

I propose that this be referred to the Committee on Privileges for inquiry. Also, I raised the question of an article which appeared in the 'Engal Desam' of November 15 in which they have defamed Abdul Cader and myself. When I raised this matter on the Floor of the House, the Hon. Deputy Speaker wanted me to give a Sinhala or English translation of the news item together with our explanation which I table".

I propose that this too be referred to the Committee on Privileges.