Two new bills – viz. the Counter Terrorism Bill and the Appropriation Bill – will be presented in parliament this week.

The Counter Terrorism Bill is set to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act, No. 48 of 1979. This bill provides for the protection of Sri Lanka and its people from acts of terrorism and other offences associated with terrorism. It also prevents the use of Sri Lankan territory for the planning or implementation of terror related activities.

Meanwhile, the Appropriations Bil provides for the service of financial year 2019, and will authorise the raising of loans both within and outside Sri Lanka. It will also make financial provisions in respect of certain government activities during that financial year.