The National Parliament on Sunday passed a bill to cancel the duty-free vehicle import privilege for members of Parliament (MPs).
Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman moved the bill in the House on Sunday. While explaining the objectives and reasons behind the bill, the minister said importing duty-free cars in the name of MP is inconsistent with the election pledges made to serve the people.
He further noted that such privileges create a visible discrimination between elected representatives and the public regarding the payment of taxes.
The minister added that, “considering the visionary outlook of leader of the House and current economic realities”, the existing duty-free vehicle facility for members of the Parliament required reconsideration.
The bill was introduced to repeal the members of Parliament (Remuneration and Allowances) order, 1973 with the aims of reducing state expenditure, increasing transparency and accountability, and establishing equality among citizens.
Following the Law minister’s presentation, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed put the bill to a vote.
The present members of Parliament passed the bill via a voice vote, effectively ending their opportunity to import vehicles under duty-free benefits.
The legislative move follows a decision made by the Cabinet committee on 23 April to abolish the facility.
