Government faces parliamentary scrutiny over THB400bn loan decree
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul takes the THB400 billion energy loan decree to Parliament, with ministers ready to answer opposition questions transparently.
- The Thai government is presenting a THB400 billion emergency borrowing decree to Parliament for consideration and debate.
- The purpose of the loan is to fund measures to address the energy crisis and support Thailand's energy transition.
- The decree, which has already been enacted, is now undergoing parliamentary scrutiny as required by the Constitution.
- The Prime Minister and relevant ministers are prepared to answer questions from MPs to ensure transparency during the debate.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived at Parliament on Wednesday (August 26) to present the government’s THB400 billion emergency borrowing decree to the House of Representatives for consideration.
The decree authorises the Ministry of Finance to borrow funds to address the impact of the energy crisis and support Thailand’s energy transition. Having already been promulgated as law, it has now been submitted by the government for parliamentary consideration in accordance with the Constitution.
On his arrival, Anutin crossed paths with Opposition Leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, who was speaking to reporters in the central hall of Parliament. The prime minister returned Natthaphong’s wai, and the two exchanged smiles before Anutin entered a lift.
Speaking briefly to reporters, Anutin noted that the House had opened its second ordinary session and was now due to consider the borrowing decree following the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the matter. He described its submission to the House as part of the process required under the Constitution.
Anutin confirmed that he would lead the government’s presentation of the decree before the House, after which MPs would be able to debate the measure.
Relevant ministers are also prepared to respond to questions raised during the debate, he added. The government would provide direct and transparent explanations on any points requiring clarification, while Anutin expressed no concern about the parliamentary scrutiny.
