PM orders relevant agencies to be prepared for fresh rains

3 Oct 16:22 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directed all relevant agencies to prepare for a new round of heavy rain from tomorrow through October 10, specifically targeting the central plains.
The PM's order follows satellite imagery showing an intense rain cloud system moving from the South China Sea towards Thailand.
During a national disaster meeting, he addressed public complaints about inaccurate weather forecasts, urging the Meteorological Department to provide clearer public clarifications.
For Bangkok, the Prime Minister instructed the BMA to prioritize and expedite water drainage into rivers, noting that food distribution to affected people is handled by various other agencies and volunteer groups.
He confirmed that the command centre would convene daily to review the flood situation, emphasizing the government's commitment to helping citizens through the crisis.

Academics call for withdrawal of bill to change Thai PBS funding

Today 11:32 Key points summarised by AI

A group of 271 academics urges the withdrawal of a bill aimed at amending the Thai PBS law, citing threats to its independence and financial autonomy.
The proposed bill seeks to shift Thai PBS's funding from a dedicated earmarked tax on 'sin goods' (liquor and tobacco) to the annual government budget.
Critics argue this change would undermine Thai PBS's status as an independent public service broadcaster, effectively transforming it into state media and eroding public trust.
The current earmarked tax is a deliberate mechanism to prevent government interference; its removal would benefit liquor/tobacco operators and divert approximately 2 billion baht annually from other potential public spending.