Thailand Live Saturday 21 Jan 2012

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Thailand Live Saturday 21 January 2012

News, Bits and Tweets

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Keep up to date with live updates from the news, hour by hour.

For breaking news, national, regional and international news updates on a daily basis only, this thread is closed to commentary so that those who wish to follow the news can find it here...

Commentary is still open for Thailand news in the relevant thread posted in News Clippings.

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Related topic: Thailand Live Friday 20 Jan 2012

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Dam levels to be kept low to reduce flood threat

Strategic water management panel unveils short-term measures; run-off areas to be identified

Follow this link: http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4993970

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Key Pheu Thai members want to push Nalinee out

A small group of key figures in the ruling Pheu Thai Party agreed yesterday to push for Nalinee Taveesin, the newly appointed Prime Minister's Office minister who is on a US blacklist, to leave office soon to avoid causing negative impact on the government.

Follow this link: http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4993977

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Egg price to rise soon, consumers warned

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

The Nation

Low-income people can expect higher living costs soon as the Commerce Ministry will allow the price of eggs, the cheapest source of protein, to increase by 20 satang at the farm gate.

Vatchari Vimooktayon, director-general to the Internal Trade Department, said yesterday that the department had to allow the price increase as the cost of egg production had risen significantly to Bt2.60 per unit, while the current price at the farm gate is at Bt2.20.

"Egg farmers have complained that they face huge losses due to stringent control on the price of eggs.

They called for the government to allow a price increase, otherwise many farmers, particularly small operators, would face bankruptcy soon," she said.

The department will soon meet with farmers and traders to ensure fair practice for them as well as balancing benefits for consumers, she said.

If the department allows the price at the farm gate to increase, the retail price of one egg will rise to Bt2.40-Bt3 depending on size.

In addition, to curb the rising cost of living for consumers, the department plans to reintroduce the mobile food cart under its Blue Flag project to sell cheap cooked food. The retail price for each menu is Bt20-Bt25 per dish, compared with an average of Bt30-Bt35 per dish in the marketplace.

To hold down the cost living, the department will also organise low-price fairs nationwide. The department has been allocated a budget of Bt106 million to organise the fairs.

-- The Nation 2012-01-21

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FACEOFF

Both sides of the argument over lese majeste law

The Nation

Supporters and opponents of amending the controversial lese majeste law are on a collision course. The Nation's Pravit Rojanaphruk asked Thammasat University anthropologist Yukti Mukdawijitra, representing the Campaign Committee for the Amendment of Article 112 (the lese majeste law) and Sukhothai Thammathiraj University law lecturer Komsan Pokong of the royalist Siam Prachapiwat group, four identical questions. Excerpts follow.

WHY IS THE ISSUE OF THE LESE MAJESTE LAW IMPORTANT?

Yukti: Because innocent people have been tried and there exists a lack of clarity in the letter of the law as to what constitutes malicious intent [towards the monarchy], which is very vaguely defined.

Trials also proceed under royalist-nationalist ideology and the institution is now above scrutiny. The rights of those charged are also not considered and anyone can just file a charge.

It also limits freedom of expression to criticise [the monarchy] honestly, which is [now] not possible. If we can't scrutinise the monarchy, the institution will decline and people will be in fear and distrust.

Komsan: First, in principle such laws exist in all countries to protect heads of state and the monarchy, which form part of the state's institutions.

Second, the lese majeste law exists to protect the monarchy institution, which is a monarchy institution within a democratic system.

CAN THERE BE A COMPROMISE BETWEEN THE TWO GROUPS?

Yukti: I don't think it's possible. Actually, our side is quite diverse and includes those who want to abolish the law, so the proposed amendment is already a compromise. Even a group of people of royal descent [led by Sumet Jumsai] have proposed that an amendment is needed.

Komsan: A compromise is rather difficult. The only possible compromise is that the Nitirat group [and the committee for amendment, which grew out of Nitirat] must provide academic information that is well rounded and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the law, and not distort things. Our group, on the other hand, aims to provide academic information.

WILL THE MATTER END WHEN THE CURRENT AMENDMENT MOVE SUCCEEDS OR FAILS?

Yukti: If the draft amendment reaches Parliament [after at least 10,000 signatures have been collected as required by the law], we shall stop. But we will also see how Parliament handles the matter.

The Campaign Committee wishes to see a multifaceted amendment and will monitor the matter.

Will the matter end if the move fails? We'll have to consider it. I still don't believe that any government MPs will discuss and earnestly consider [the proposed amendment] of the lese majeste law.

Komsan: I don't think it will be over, because it's not an academic matter. There's a political motive, and even if the other group fails they won't stop and will always seek an opportunity to make a move.

What they are doing now reflects an attempt to weaken the monarchy institution. Put simply, they are preparing flour to make bread. And even if they succeed [in amending the law] it won't be the end [for us]. We are an academic group and shall provide more academic information about the matter.

WHY SHOULD PEOPLE WHO DO NOT CURRENTLY SUPPORT YOUR GROUP BELIEVE IN YOU?

Yukti: The issue of lese majeste law is difficult. It's not just about reason, but also very much about emotion.

It's about faith in the institution and the King that began on October 14 [1973] and the various royal projects that eventually led to love for the institution in a way that's beyond reasoning.

It's difficult to convince society with just reasoning, and we have been accused of being republicans.

I would like to tell the group that clings to the monarchy in that fashion that their kind of faith in the monarchy leads to the institution not being scrutinised, and will lead the institution to drift away from the people and eventually become a tool for autocratic groups.

Things will be otherwise if we can debate issues relating to the institution.

Komsan: There is only one thing - open your heart and listen to various views. Before you believe in anything, you should examine the information you have.

Whether the lese majeste law will be amended or not should be the result of that deliberation.

Their proposal [to amend the law] is lunacy.

They want to reduce the monarchy to the status of ordinary citizens and greater protection [under current Thai law] would be provided to, among others, traffic police, judges, and heads of state such as Barack Obama.

They can't just say it's the responsibility of Parliament to bring other laws in line with the proposed amendment.

It's irresponsible to society. Their activities may continue to cause damage well into the time of our posterity.

-- The Nation 2012-01-21

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TERROR ARREST

Bomb materials meant for the Mideast: Police

Destined for 3 nations; suspect says material left in shophouse by Mossad

Follow this link: http://www.thaivisa....st-thai-police/

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CHAROEN POKPHAND

Thai Govt slammed over pro-consumer policy

Crop prices should be floated to raise incomes for farmers, Dhanin says

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EDITORIAL

Appointment of new PM's minister is questionable

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WATCHDOG

PM Yingluck defends new Cabinet line-up ahead of likely third reshuffle

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Pub brawl turns into fatal shootout claiming five lives

THE NATION

A suspect involved in a drive-and-shoot incident in Bangkok early yesterday, in which five people were killed and five others wounded after their vehicle crashed, has surrendered, Rat Burana police said yesterday.

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Deputy Education Minister Nattawut puts critics on notice: Thailand

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Prayuth upbeat on ties with new minister

THE NATION

Army chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha yesterday said he was confident that military camaraderie would ensure smooth ties between the armed forces and incoming Defence Minister Air Chief Marshal Sukampol Suwannathat .

"Sukampol was a pre-cadet upperclassman, so he and I can talk in a brotherly manner and will not hurt each other," he said.

Prayuth played down fears that a conflict over the midyear military reshuffle would trigger a military coup in April.

"Soldiers have a single duty: to heed the orders of their superiors," he said.

He was reacting to speculation that Sukampol might try to exert influence over the military rotations.

Commenting on the Cabinet reshuffle, Prayuth said the government had a mandate to name the defence minister without having to consult the armed forces.

He said outgoing minister Yuthasak Sasiprapha told him his promotion to the position of deputy prime minister was a change for the better.

"Yuthasak will oversee security affairs, including the Defence Ministry," Prayuth said.

Sukampol tried to allay anxieties his appointment would stir up tensions between the government and the military.

"I am not a hawk, as portrayed in the media, but a reasonable man," he said.

He dismissed speculation he would amend the Defence Minister Administration Act in regard to military appointments, saying he would not take a stand until he had been able to study relevant issues thoroughly.

He said he would abide by existing rules in regard to the military line-up. Should his decisions on military reshuffles impact the government, he would consult the prime minister before implementing them, he said.

As a retired Air Force officer, he should not have any trouble overseeing military affairs, he said.

He does not want to live in the past, he said, apparently referring to the derailing of his military career by the 2006 coup.

Insisting he has good ties with Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Itthaporn Suphawong, Sukampol dismissed speculation he would mount a military purge.

-- The Nation 2012-01-21

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AoT exempts charges to help flood-affected airlines

BANGKOK, Jan 21 - The Airports of Thailand (AoT) on Friday announced that it would exempt landing and parking charges for aircraft to help airlines affected by the flood crisis at Don Mueang airport last year.

AoT closed Don Mueang airport temporarily on Oct 25, as flood waters flowed onto the runways. After being flooded for almost two months, AoT is repairing airport infrastructure and the facility is scheduled to reopen on April 1.

The agency, which manages, operates and develops airports in Thailand, said the charges would be retroactive from Oct 25 until March 2012 before Don Mueang resumes normal operations.

The exemption would cost AoT some Bt110 million in revenue, it said.

The move is part of the rehabilitation measures to help the airlines which were severely hit by one of the worst flood crises in Thailand's history, said AoT.

As for the office and real property rental, service and other charges including retail shops inside and outside the terminals as well as the charges for some airlines that swiftly relocated to temporary facilities at Suvarnabhumi airport, AoT would charge them at the same rate as Don Mueang airport.

AoT estimated that Bt440 million would be spent for repair and maintenance works at Don Mueang, with Bt305 million being used to improve the eastern runway, driveway and parking area scheduled for completion in February. Maintenance work for the western runway, driveway and parking area would cost Bt135 million for commercial service expected to be ready in March.

Currently, AOT has six international airports under its responsibility -- Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Chiang Rai and Suvarnabhumi -- all of which accommodate both domestic and international flights. (MCOT online news)

-- TNA 2012-01-21

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Officials Warn Of Fake Monks' Targeting Phuket Tourists

Follow this link: http://www.thaivisa....huket-tourists/

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Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's Smartraveller advisory service

The following Travel Advice has changed or been added since our last update (14 Jan 2012 11:14:31 EST):

* Thailand

http://www.smartrave...Advice/Thailand

Current Advice Level: "High degree of caution"

Change Summary:

It contains new information in the Summary and under Safety and Security: Terrorism (in January 2012, Thai authorities made arrests and seizures in Bangkok in relation to an alleged terrorist plot). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

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Avoid Chinatown and fresh markets today due to Chinese New Year shopping by Thais of Chinese descent /TANN

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'Safety boost' at death bend not working: Village chief

Baan Kho En village chief Somnuek Patee explains that the speed bumps installed before the notorious curve are actually causing rear-end collisions among speeding motorists. Photo: Warisa Temram

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Northeast, Central, BKK, South to see scattered thunderstorm; temperature in North drops 2-3 degrees Celsius /TANN

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Red Cross seek blood donation at The Mall Bangkae noon-6pm,Chatuchak 11am-3pm,3/Fl Seacon Square 11.30am-3.30pm,Prachachuen Soi 3 4-8pm /TANN

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BOI Fair at Muang Thong Thani continues only until Sunday /TANN

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iPad 3 Release Date:

10 Best Android Games February 2012: http://www.nettechblog.com/10-best-android-games-february-2012/

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THAI sees no impact from US terror alert

BANGKOK, 21 January 2012 (NNT) – The country's flag-carrier, Thai Airways International, said that recent travel advisories against Thailand have not hurt its business just yet.

Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, President of Thai Airways International, revealed that the flag-carrier's business has experienced a slight on-year drop of 8.9% in December 2011.

He said the fall was largely due to foreign travelers' cancellation or postponement of domestic flights because of last year's severe flooding.

Thai Airways President said that while last December's capacity stood at 68.1%, the company's 2011 operation has enjoyed a 3.9% growth in passenger numbers. Accordingly, Thai Airway has recorded the 2011 loss that was THB5 billion less than in the preceding year.

However, Mr. Piyasvasti pointed out that the impact from the issuance of travel advice by several governments, after the US Embassy in Bangkok posted a terror alert for its citizens in Thailand, remains something to be cautious about.

So far, the flag-carrier's operation has not been affected by this issue and the company's President hopes that the airlines' capacity utilization will be intact, at least for the month of January.

-- NNT 2012-01-21

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Foreign Ministry appreciates cancellation of travel advisory by Chinese government

BANGKOK, 21 January 2012 (NNT) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its appreciation for China's removal of its travel advice against Thailand.

Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said that the Chinese government has removed its travel advisory against Thailand on Friday.

Mr. Surapong attributed China's decision to Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's and his recent participation in the Lunar New Year celebration at the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok, during which the issue of travel advisory removal has been raised for discussion with Ambassador Guan Mu, who promised to talk to Beijing about it.

Now, the Foreign Minister is hopeful that local tourism will become lively during the Lunar New Year holidays, when a large number of Chinese travelers are expected to land in Thailand.

He also hopes that 19 other governments, including the US, will follow China's footsteps soon.

-- NNT 2012-01-21

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PM not hosting weekly TV programme, opens Centre for Creative Community under Ploenchit expressway aimed to develop public's quality of life /MCOT

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Phuket's Patong Immigration office to reopen

The Phuket Immigration Office in Patong, located next door to the Patong Tourist Police Volunteers office, will reopen next week after the refurbishment is complete. Photo: Patong Tourist Police Volunteers

Phuket Immigration Superintendent Col Panuwat Ruamrak said that the Patong office will be an information center only. All applications regarding visas and permits to stay must be made at the Immigration Office in Phuket Town. Photo: Gazette file

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NSC chief affirms terror suspect detention made according to law

BANGKOK, Jan 21 - National Security Council (NSC) Secretary-Genl Pol Gen Wichean Potephosree affirmed that the detention of Atris Hussein, a Lebanese-Swedish terror suspect, was made according to law and evidence.

His comment was made after Mr Hussein, held on terrorism charges at the Bangkok Remand Prison, gave an interview to a Swedish newspaper on Thursday that he had been framed by the Mossad, or Isarel's Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations. The suspect insisted he was innocent.

On Jan 13, the US Embassy in Bangkok published on its website warning of a possible terror incident on Thai soil. Over ten embassies in the country subsequently followed suit.

Mr Hussein was detained, also on Jan 13, while leaving the country at Suvarnabhumi Airport under immigration law after the Thai government was tipped off by US and Israeli officials about a planned terror attack in the Thai capital by Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group and political party supported by Israel and Syria.

Meanwhile, Assumption University's ABAC Poll revealed 57.2 per cent of those surveyed said they did not think the Thai government was ready to manage terrorism, while 58 per cent viewed it was possible for terrorism to occur in Bangkok, as state officials did not strictly perform their duties, lacked experience, and could be influenced or paid off by wrongdoers.

The poll was conducted on how Bangkokians viewed terrorism in the capital, among 1,174 persons over 18 years old in Bangkok from Jan 18-20.

Seventy-three percent of respondents said they followed this news. Over half of those surveyed (or 55 per cent) answered that they believed the United States' information on the terror alert rather than that of the Thai government.

About 63 per cent noted a special budget is needed for the Royal Police Bureau in order to patrol and monitor the situation, and create confidence among Thais and foreigners.

ABAC Poll's researcher, Puntaree Issarangkul Na Ayudhaya, suggested the government consider a special law reform on budget and data analysis integration to quicken authorisation of the Thai prime minister for following and tackling national security issues. (MCOT online news)

-- TNA 2012-01-21

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Phuket tourism: China lifts travel warning

Two boys suit up for Chinese New Year in Phuket Town. Photo: Gazette file.

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[Lite Beer]

RT@chuvit_online: Government have all kinds of choice to select any one to be minister, why have they choose Nalinee? No any reason or political factor

RT@chuvit_online: For strip casino, it is promotion as same as Happy Hour when bar want to draw attention from guest to come to drink when is no guest

RT@chuvit_online: So don't be surprise, Thai police is always last person to know where are all illegal casino, this problem is complicated!

[Lite Beer]

RT@chuvit_online: Back to as same before, so sorry for what our system works in is country where we live and pay for taxes, hope we will have brave leader. Not a puppet leader who would speak up for the truth of our own country benefit, soon I will explore for more information as casino and pub.

RT@chuvit_online: Last night I was dream about my country that have police works with people's benefit and flight against all kinds of corruption. Will my dream comes true? I personally believe that those police still have some to flight for this and hope some day will win