The National Assembly’s Legislative Committee proposed providing MPs with either a duty car or a one-time grant to buy a duty vehicle, exempted from customs duty and sales tax. The proposal was part of the Parliamentary Entitlements (Amendment) Bill 2024. However, the finance minister said reintroducing the quota system would put pressure on the country’s foreign reserves.
The Parliamentary Entitlements Amendment Bill specifies providing MPs with a duty vehicle of 2800 to 3000 cc which are SUVs like Landcruiser Prado.
The Amendment Act also includes provisions for a driver or a monthly driver allowance. They also asked for a monthly fuel or maintenance allowance in case they are not provided with designated duty vehicles.
“When MPs serve the people, inadequate benefits can hinder their ability to work effectively. This, in turn, erodes public trust in the parliamentary system. Moreover, without adequate incentives, experienced individuals may be discouraged from entering politics,” said Kuenga, the Chairperson of the Legislative Committee.
The finance minister said the transformation team had carefully decided to do away with the vehicle tax exemption. He said, that if it gets introduced, it will affect the foreign reserve.
“For example, if MPs are given a Prado quota, it doesn’t matter if they buy a Prado with it. However, the reality is that someone else will use that quota, and with the money from selling it, they will buy another car. In this way, one quota effectively imports two cars. We have reviewed this situation, and if MPs are entitled to this quota, then civil servants should also have the same entitlement.” said Lekey Dorji, the Finance Minister.
The House acknowledged the provision with the majority of hands raised. The discussion will continue tomorrow.
Samten Dolkar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
