"I can't remember the last time I imported a vehicle and I am not among the MPs who sold their vehicles to outside parties," UPFA General Secretary Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said today.

The Minister made these remarks while addressing a public meeting in Weeraketiya.

"Ministers imported vehicles then and they import vehicles now. I can't see any difference in their conduct. But, after the new government came to power, there is some dialogue in the society about ministers importing luxury vehicles. One can assume that those who talk about vehicles were silent in the past due to fear," Amaraweera added.

 "I have no objections on ministers using good vehicles. I am not saying that they should travel by bus. Ministers should enjoy their privileges. But, they should deliver results," he said.

"I am a member of the Cost of Living Committee. I know there is an issue about prices of rice. There are some who create an artificial shortage of rice to increase prices. I am planning to present a proposal to the next committee meeting to take stern action on those creating artificial price hikes," the Minister revealed, while addressing the meeting.