Bangkok: Secretary-General of the Council of State, Mr. Pakorn Nilpraphun, has clarified his position regarding the draft Entertainment Complex Act, emphasizing that the Council did not obstruct the law but sought clarity on its objectives.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nilpraphun addressed concerns surrounding the Council of State's objections to the draft law, which is set for Cabinet consideration. He stated that the main issue was ensuring that the draft law aligns with the government's broader policy objectives, particularly regarding its focus on tourism and entertainment complexes. The draft, as currently formulated by the Ministry of Finance, primarily reflects observations from the House of Representatives committee, which centers on entertainment complexes and gambling issues.
The Council of State believes that the government's policy encompasses a wider scope, including man-made tourist attractions, which should be incorporated into the law to make it comprehensive. The Council noted that the current draft's emphasis on solving gambling problems through entertainment complexes might not be effective, as gambling issues require solutions that address societal habits and behaviors, which are already regulated by existing gambling laws. Clarity on whether the draft aims to create tourist destinations or entertainment complexes is crucial before its submission to the Cabinet.
Mr. Nilpraphun assured that the draft does not conflict with government policy and is not illegal. He reiterated that the ultimate goal is to boost tourism, a clear objective in the government's policy.