UK, Irish leaders to meet as Brexit deal hopes wane

13 Sept 11:33 Key points summarised by AI

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar are meeting to find common ground for an elusive Brexit deal, just three weeks before the October 31 deadline.
The primary sticking point remains the Irish border, with the EU rejecting the UK's proposal for customs checks on some goods, even if not directly at the currently invisible border.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 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.