Bangkok: The House of Representatives session, led by First Deputy Speaker Chaiya Promma, was closed once more due to a lack of quorum, marking the fourth such occurrence. This decision came after a discussion by Chutiphong Phiphobpinyo, Rayong MP for the People's Party, who questioned the presence of government MPs.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting initially progressed with the passing of the draft Railway Transport Act B.E. and the consideration of the draft Common Ticket Management Act B.E., both of which had already been reviewed by the committee. During the vote on Section 33, Chutiphong emphasized the opposition's consistent presence and raised concerns about declining public confidence in the legislature, referencing a Nida Poll survey. He urged the government to confirm its commitment to the session to ensure the legislation is passed without further delays.
In response, Mr. Chaiya Promma protested Chutiphong's remarks but allowed him to continue speaking. Chutiphong reiterated the opposition's readiness to provide a quorum if the government showed commitment. Mr. Chaiya explained that some members were eating and requested patience, indicating that the meeting would be adjourned at 6:50 PM. Despite the assurance, a voice exclaimed the absence of a quorum, leading to the session's closure.
Reporters highlighted that since the session's commencement on July 3rd, there have been three previous instances of premature closure due to quorum issues, specifically on July 3rd, July 9th, and July 17th. This recent closure adds to the ongoing challenges faced by the parliament in maintaining a quorum.