New Delhi, Apr 22: Prime Minister Atal Bihari
Vajpayee today asked party MPs to refrain from publicly
expressing their views on issues like Value Added Tax (VAT) as
these may be at variance with those of the party.
"Whatever views you have, convey these to the Deputy
Prime Minister or the finance minister but do not air them
publicly. We should always present a united picture outside,"
Vajpayee told the weekly meeting of the BJP Parliamentary
party.
Briefing reporters, party spokesman V K Malhotra said
the Prime Minister told the members that even though they may
be representing all sections of the community, "They should
not express views outside which may be at variance with that
of the party."
A section of the party MPs are reportedly campaigning for
those who are opposed to VAT even though the party is of the
view that it is for state governments to take a decision on
the issue.
The VAT issue had figured at a meeting of top BJP
leadership held at the prime minister's residence on Sunday.
Elaborating on VAT, finance minister Jaswant Singh said
it is a state subject and they were free to decide on its
imposition.
In powerloom and handicrafts sector, he said those who
are self-employed, their interest would be taken care of and
indicated some relief would be provided to this sector when
the finance bill is moved.
Bureau Report
