Perera v. People’s Bank Land Redemption Department and Others – sllr 1985 volume 1 page 039

In the case between the Petitioner (widow of the original landholder) and People’s Bank (Land Redemption Department) among other respondents, the court considered whether the bank’s refusal to acquire an undivided share of land under section 71 of the Finance Act No. 11 of 1963 (as amended) was subject to judicial review and the extent to which allegations of bias and administrative discretion could attract judicial intervention. The findings established that while the bank’s preliminary questions regarding authority may be reviewed, its ultimate policy-based decision, made according to statutory discretion, is final and conclusive and cannot be challenged by certiorari or mandamus. The court further determined that the assertion of bias, solely on the employment status of the respondent,