Fernando v. Jinadasa and others – 1978_79 volume 2 page 187

In the case between Fernando (owner of the Dolarosa Bakery) and Jinadasa and others, the court addressed whether the leased premises constituted a “business” or “business premises” under the Rent Act, No. 7 of 1972, and whether the Rent Board proceedings complied with the principles of natural justice. The findings established that the Rent Board exceeded its jurisdiction by restricting oral evidence, denying the lessor a fair opportunity to present his case regarding the actual use and character of the premises. The court quashed the decisions of both the Rent Board and the Board of Review, reaffirming the principle that statutory bodies must exercise their powers in accordance with natural justice and within the scope defined by law. This decision was based on statutory interpretation of