Cabinet agrees submarine deal equipped with Chinese-made engines

14 Sept 23:44 Key points summarised by AI

The Cabinet approved the 13.5 billion baht submarine deal with China, accepting Chinese-made CHD620 engines after Germany blocked the export of its originally specified MTU engines due to NATO and EU obligations.
Despite initial reluctance over the Chinese engines, the Royal Thai Navy agreed to proceed to avoid forfeiting an 8 billion baht down payment and was reassured by Pakistan's confirmation of the engine's efficiency, with the contract also extended by three years.

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

18 Oct 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.