Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has permitted Trade and Industry Minister KT Hammond to bring the L.I before the House to restrict the importation of certain products.
On Thursday, November 30, 2023, the Minister is expected to lay the L.I.
The L.I. is opposed by the Parliamentary Minority.
According to the caucus, if passed, the L. I will be detrimental to the general interests of Ghanaians and business people.
They also believe that the L.I. will breed corruption.
The Minority added that there hasn’t been sufficient engagement with the caucus and relevant stakeholders regarding the Legislative Instrument (L.I.).
Deputy Minority Whip, who raised the concerns said “Mr. Speaker, the matter is a very serious one that hinges on the survival of businesses in this country.”
“Mr. Speaker, we are not just objecting, care should be taken. Let’s reflect on the serious issues that have been raised on this floor, and the Minority has raised objections. Which of them didn’t go back to come and fight for this country? And this is one of them.”
“Mr. Speaker, just yesterday, six associations—Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI)—wrote a petition, having confidence in members of this house, that we should take that petition into consideration.”
The Speaker clarified that the L.I. meets the constitutional test, so no one can block its laying.
He then asked KT Hammond to meet with the Subsidiary Legislation Committee to ensure the instrument’s laying on Thursday.
Below are the 22 items being considered under the L.I.
Rice
Guts, bladders and stomach of animals
Poultry
Animal and Vegetable Oil
Margarine
Fruit Juices
Soft Drink
Mineral Water
Noodles and Pasta
Ceramic Tiles
Corrugated Paper and Paper Board
Mosquito Coil and Insecticides
Soaps and Detergents
Motor Cars
Iron and Steel
Cement
Polymers (Plastics and Plastic Products)
Fish
Sugar
Clothing and Apparel
Biscuits
Canned Tomatoes
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana