Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has maintained that any avoidance of summons by Parliamentary Select Committee will be cited as contempt of Parliament.

Addressing the House, Speaker said:

“The Select Committee was appointed by the Parliament and was approved by Party Leaders. The first court case came up after the Select Committee commenced its work and we are unable to discontinue. According to Standing Order 91 (e), the Speaker had the choice to decide and I decided to continue the Select Committee. So, I advise you to appear in front of the Select Committee. Under the new Standing Orders, media can be allowed at the discretion of the members of the respective committee and the Chair.”

He made this observation responding to a statement made by MP Dayasiri Jayasekara who said he had not appeared before the Special Select Committee as it would violate the Standing Orders of Parliament.