NLA approves anti-money laundering amendments bill

BANGKOK: -- The National Legislative Assembly decided unanimously by 150 votes to pass into law the anti-money laundering amendments bill which will incorporate several offences such as human trafficking subjected to financial controls.

Financial gains derived from human trafficking, misappropriation or thefts in accordance with laws pertaining to financial institutions, illegal gambling involving money more than five million baht, offences regarding trade in securities, trafficking in arms used for terrorism or war are subjected to anti-money laundering controls.

The NLA voiced its objection to a clause in the bill empowering the cabinet to appoint six members of the anti-money laundering committee claiming that this will open a leeway for political interference.

The NLA finally voted in support of a proposal by General Somjate Boonthanom that the power to appoint the six members of the committee should rest with the Senate instead of the cabinet.

Source: http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/nla-approves-anti-money-laundering-amendments-bill

-- Thai PBS 2015-08-22

Another bill on the statute, now chaps, moving on to enforcement.........................................

"unanimously by 150 votes"

A year ago people complaint about strict 'attendance enforcement' proposals. With seemingly 70 NLA members not present I guess the enforcement has not emerged or been relaxed? Did 70 NLA members request permission to be absent from this important vote ?

"unanimously by 150 votes"

A year ago people complaint about strict 'attendance enforcement' proposals. With seemingly 70 NLA members not present I guess the enforcement has not emerged or been relaxed? Did 70 NLA members request permission to be absent from this important vote ?

They had to quickly move their tea money out of the country before it became illegal to do so and thus didnt attend the meeting.

"the power to appoint the six members of the committee should rest with the Senate"

And further strengthening an unelected "shadow" government when an elected government comes to power.

"the power to appoint the six members of the committee should rest with the Senate"

And further strengthening an unelected "shadow" government when an elected government comes to power.

... and trying to keep the Anti Money Laundering Committee out of the hands of greedy politicians who like to 'take special care',