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.

Industrial waste impounded in five warehouses in Rayong

Yesterday 17:26 Key points summarised by AI

Pollution Control Department officials seized large quantities of industrial and electronic waste from five warehouses in Rayong's Nikhom Pattana district.
The impounded materials included diverse waste like electric wire, plastics, various metal scraps, and electronic circuits, alongside processing machinery.
Officials discovered substantial imported industrial waste in one warehouse, complete with origin and weight documentation.
Samples of the waste and wastewater are undergoing laboratory tests to assess potential environmental and health impacts.
The Pollution Control Department plans to collaborate with agencies to ensure proper waste storage and management, preventing environmental threats and health hazards.