Bangkok: Government whips are actively working to push the Clean Air Act to completion in its third reading, with discussions taking place this week as part of efforts to finalize the Act within the next three parliamentary sessions. The first meeting of government whips, chaired by Mr. Chada Thaiset from Bhumjaithai Party, focuses on addressing pending legislation, including the Clean Air Management Act, which is currently awaiting its second reading in the House of Representatives.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Nan Bunthida Somchai, Ubon Ratchathani MP and Secretary of the Government Coalition Coordination Committee, emphasized the importance of finalizing the Clean Air Management Act in the current session. The government whip has coordinated efforts with opposition whips and the Pheu Thai Party to ensure the bill is considered promptly. Ms. Nan expressed the commitment to overcome the challenges faced in finalizing the bill, aiming to complete the third reading before the session closes.
Ms. Nan addressed concerns about the absence of ministers in responding to Senate questions, clarifying that coordination had been established, and ministers had responded to MPs' questions. She noted that any gaps in ministerial responses would be addressed by consulting the Senate whip to identify any miscoordination.
In terms of managing multiple draft laws within the government's four-month timeframe, Ms. Nan stated that efforts are in place to discuss these matters by October 30th. While the draft Clean Air Management Act takes precedence, the whip is awaiting reports from the Office of the Assembly on other bills ready for consideration.
Ms. Nan also touched on the progress of other legislative items, including the draft amnesty bill, and the need for special committee notifications before further actions are taken. She highlighted the importance of ensuring a quorum for legislative progress and mentioned ongoing coordination with opposition whips to maintain quorum and agenda alignment.
Regarding the constitutional amendment debate scheduled for October 14-15, preliminary discussions will take place next week. Ms. Nan noted that coordination with the Senate is crucial, emphasizing the need for parliamentary voice support. However, she stressed the privilege of parliamentarians in voting matters, highlighting the independence of each member's decision.
Ms. Nan refrained from speculating on the approval of bills from various political parties, acknowledging the complexity of predicting voting outcomes among the 700 members. She assured that the Bhumjaithai Party would discuss the contents of each draft in their party meeting, ensuring members are well-informed on the issues at hand.