Deputy Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Ashok Abeysinghe said that VAT on automobiles were increased not to cause distress on public but to increase the revenue of the country.

He made this observation today at a media conference held after his visit to SLTB depot in Hatton.

The Deputy Minister further stated that the increased tax will only be limited to a short period as 6 months. Country’s revenue had be increased due to the large amount of foreign debt which has to be paid, he said.

Meanwhile, commenting on the inspection visit to SLTB depot, the Deputy Minister said that Hatton depot was one of the best SLTB depots in the island, with an income of Rs 36 million.