Head of the front Saman Ratnapriya said those who obtain services from private hospitals are likely to lose, as they are not provided with detailed bills.

The Front also asked the minister for the basis for his remark that the 15 pc VAT imposed on private channeling and other hospital services would not affect patients.

It charged the minister of allowing private channeling fees to be raised to Rs. 2,000 by imposing a ceiling, although the present fees range between Rs. 1,200 and Rs. 1,500 only.

Meanwhile, a subcommittee on economic affairs headed by prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has been tasked with taking all decisions pertaining to taxes.

This subcommittee will inform president Maithripala Sirisena of its decisions.

Noting that the people will not be burdened by taxes, it says it will take all finance-related decisions of government ministries.