Ruwan Wijewardene says that Sri Lanka has been captured by the black market

Ruwan Wijewardene, the Deputy Leader of the United National Party (UNP) said yesterday that the black market was captured by moneylenders (athletes) as they were allowed to determine the prices of essential commodities.

Mr. Wijewardene questioned several UNP activists as to why the government allowed black market players to decide on essential commodities such as rice, cement, flour, milk powder and gas.

Mr. Wijewardene said suppliers of essential commodities, including mill owners, were raising prices at will. The Consumer Affairs Authority was established by the UNP government in 2003 with a new bill.

He said suppliers avoid determining prices.