Sri Lanka, March 14 -- Whenever we speak about a Budget the name of Ronnie de Mel invariably comes to mind. That is because he created a record in politics by presenting 11 successive Budgets in Parliament without a break.

A pioneer who introduced the open economic policies to the country he brought in several revolutionary changes by introducing accelerated development and granting several relief measures to the public.

Here are excerpts of an interview held with former Finance and Planning Minister Ronnie de Mel regarding the 2019 Budget:

Q: How are you keeping these days?

A: Now I am a pensioner. I am spending my retirement watching cricket matches, reading books and looking after my properties.

Q: Are you happy about the role you...