President Maithripala Sirisena has announced austerity measures for himself and members of his family.
According to the Colombo Page web site, President Sirisena has ordered not to use the term 'His Excellency' before his name, nor should his wife be addressed as the 'First Lady'.
In an interview given to the state broadcaster, Rupavahini, President Sirisena also said that although there are several presidential houses around the country, he will use them productively and only for state functions.
He also said that a USD 16 million order placed by the previous government for a new aircraft for the president has been revoked, and the money would be used to buy spare parts for Sri Lankan Airlines and Mihin Lanka, which would be merged soon.
President Sirisena said his family members would not be using helicopters unless they were accompanying him for official purposes, if required.
He also said he had instructed that schoolchildren should not be brought to functions attended by him.
