Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, a list MP and leader of the Democrat Party, has raised concerns over the government's current economic relief measures, highlighting their inadequacy in proportion to the public's suffering. On April 25th, he commented on the need for the government to expedite the provision of clear information regarding their economic policies.
According to Thai News Agency, Abhisit emphasized the necessity for Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, to clarify the budget allocation for the "Half-Price Plus" scheme. He noted that previous relief efforts failed to adequately address the hardships faced by the people. Abhisit stated that Ekniti has been working on steps concerning the Budget Transfer Act and the 2027 Fiscal Year Expenditure Act to determine if borrowing is necessary. He stressed the importance of focusing on assisting vulnerable groups and providing detailed project plans.
Abhisit also mentioned the potential benefits of using available tools such as reducing excise taxes and refinery costs to alleviate financial burdens at the source. This approach, he argued, could reduce the government's need for subsidies at the end-user level and prevent increased prices from dropping back down.
Addressing the "Half-Half Plus" project, where the government contributes 60 baht and the public pays 40 baht, Abhisit expressed his desire for clearer benefit distribution figures between vulnerable groups and the general public. He reiterated that government spending should aim to assist those affected by the crisis instead of merely stimulating the economy.
Abhisit questioned the effectiveness of the "Half-Half Plus" project, noting that past measures in various sectors have not matched the scale of those affected. He urged the government to quickly clarify whether the project will be supported through the Budget Transfer Act, the 2027 budget, or a special loan.