Britain's Johnson sets out defence of new Brexit plan

16 Sept 06:44 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is actively campaigning to secure EU support for his new Brexit plan, aiming to avert a no-deal scenario or further delays.
The proposal tackles the Irish border issue by removing Northern Ireland from the EU customs union while aligning it with Irish goods regulations, effectively creating two temporary economic borders.
A key contentious element allows the Northern Irish assembly to terminate its alignment with Ireland by 2025, a time-limited solution previously problematic for Brussels.
Despite guarded reception from EU leaders and Dublin, Johnson's plan has garnered crucial backing from a diverse group of UK MPs, including some Labour members and ardent Conservatives, boosting its parliamentary prospects.
UK Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay stresses the urgency for intensive negotiations by the weekend to finalize a deal before the critical October 17-18 EU leaders' summit.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.