Bangkok: Budget Committee 69 has begun its detailed examination of the country's overall economic situation along with budget expenditures for four key agencies. The discussions are expected to be concluded by the evening, with the potential involvement of ministers for crucial policy explanations. The committee's spokesperson emphasized that while there is no set target to reduce the budget, the focus will remain on assessing appropriateness and necessity.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chanin Rungthanakiat, Spokesperson of the Special Committee for Consideration of the Draft Budget Act for Fiscal Year 2026, outlined the process during a press conference. The initial phase involves understanding the country's economic landscape and budget requests from various agencies. Each agency will have the opportunity to present their budget needs directly, with up to ten representatives allowed for each agency.
For ministry-level clarifications, either the Permanent Secretary or the head of the budget receiving unit can address the committee. In cases where significant policy issues arise, ministers may be invited to provide clarifications. If an agency is unable to present in person, a written request for permission to respond to the committee chairman is required.
The committee has decided that five key agencies will attend every meeting to provide support and answer questions. These agencies include the Office of the Auditor General, the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Civil Service Commission, the Civil Service Development Commission, and the Parliamentary Budget Bureau.
Regarding transparency, the committee resolved to broadcast meeting images and audio outside the meeting room for continuous public access, except for confidential sessions. Additionally, a broadcast system within the parliament building ensures ongoing access for members and officials.
Mr. Chanin noted that this meeting, the committee's second, will address the country's economic situation and budget expenditures for the National Economic and Social Development Board, the Budget Bureau, the Ministry of Finance, and the Bank of Thailand. Following their presentations, the committee will review the central budget under Section 6, which includes 12 items from various departments. Completion is anticipated by 6:00 p.m.
Addressing the opposition's proposal to cut the budget by 50 billion baht, Mr. Chanin indicated that although discussions had occurred, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, clarified that any budget reduction is a decision for the House of Representatives and the committee. No specific reduction target has been set; rather, decisions will be based on detailed evaluations.
Mr. Chanin also responded to questions about the involvement of agencies like the National Economic and Social Development Board. He explained that the current focus is on understanding the broader economic framework and aligning perspectives before delving into specific sections.
As discussions on projects such as Trump's tax and the digital wallet project were raised, Mr. Chanin clarified that the digital wallet project would not be discussed as it is not part of this year's budget. Regarding Trump's tax, the focus will be on assessing preparedness beyond the allocated budget.
Finally, Mr. Chanin addressed the opposition's request for live broadcasts of the meetings. He stated that while the meetings are broadcasted outside the meeting room, continuous live broadcasts for the public are not feasible due to existing parliamentary TV programming. However, transparency remains a priority, allowing for opposition participation and question opportunities.