The government has decided to charge USD 1000 from those using the VIP lounge at the Katunaike Bandaranaike International Airport.

Addressing a press conference today, ruling party MP Dilan Perera said even President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa used the normal procedure when he flew overseas recently.

He also added that other ministers and MPs will take cue from the President and follow suit, in keeping with the President's way of thinking.

"But anyone can pay USD 1000 and use the VIP lounge. This is the procedure adopted in other countries as well, " he added.