Sri Lanka's 2026 Budget Debate Scheduled from November 7 to December 5

15-Sep-2025

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The second reading of the 2026 Appropriation Bill will begin on November 7, 2025, and debates will continue from November 8 to December 5. 

This was decided at a parliamentary committee meeting on September 11, 2025, chaired by Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne.

The first reading of the bill is scheduled for September 26, 2025. The second reading debate will span six days, with a vote scheduled at 6 PM on November 14.

Following this, committee-stage discussions will take place from November 15 to December 5 (17 days), with the third reading vote at 6 PM on December 5.

During this period, budget debates will occur on all days except public holidays and Sundays, including Saturdays. 

Committee debates will start at 9:30 AM on Mondays and 9:00 AM on other weekdays. Time will also be allocated for five oral questions and one question under Standing Order 27(2).

Debates will continue until 6 PM daily, with additional time between 6 PM and 6:30 PM divided equally (50:50) between the ruling and opposition parties for motions and responses, except on days scheduled for votes.