Phase III of cash handout scheme postponed indefinitely

14 Sept 00:22 Key points summarised by AI

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced the indefinite postponement of Phase III of the cash handout scheme, citing financial constraints.
The decision is influenced by potential US tariffs on Thai exports and the government's need to provide financial support to struggling Thai businesses, particularly SMEs.
The government plans to reallocate an estimated 157 billion baht from the Central Fund to prioritize projects in water management, public transport, public toilets (to promote tourism), and education.
To support the economy, the government will urge financial institutions to increase the issuance of soft loans with low interest rates to help SMEs and prevent GDP growth from falling.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

Yesterday 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.