Economic Reforms, Science and Technology Minister Milinda Moragoda tendered a letter of resignation from his portfolio yesterday to Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on the grounds that he could not 'contribute to the progress of the country in the current situation'.

The Prime Minister had accepted the letter. Mr. Moragoda said he took this decision following a letter sent by President Chandrika Kumaratunga informing of his removal from his portfolio. All other ministers not of cabinet rank and deputy ministers have also been removed following a decision taken by the President. Mr. Moragoda said he had done his utmost to discharge the responsibilities given to him by taking all possible steps to assist the Prime Minister in his duties.

"As you are aware, over the last two years I have done my utmost to discharge the responsibilities given to me in taking all possible steps within my power to assist you in moving the peace process forward, to help modernising our economy, assist the reforms process and obtain the necessary assistance to this country from the international community. Given the current situation I do not think it would be possible in anyway for me to contribute to the progress of the country and the welfare of our people" he said in his letter.