146 The Constitution of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka In Article, “person” includes any body of persons or any authority. Deputy Speaker to act for Speaker 159. Where the Speaker is unable to discharge the functions of his office, the powers, duties and functions conferred or imposed on, or assigned to, the Speaker by any Provision of the Constitution, other than by Articles 31(4), 37, 38(2)(b), 39(2) and 40, may be exercised, performed or discharged by the Deputy Speaker.