Bangkok: Dr. Warong tore up the application forms for five parliamentary assistants in the middle of a press conference at the Parliament, arguing that just three people could be as efficient and save 540 million baht annually. He urged MPs and Senators to respond to the needs of the people in this new political climate, viewing it as a positive sign after MPs began buying their own food.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, a list MP from the Thai Bhakdi Party, commented on the proposal to the Speaker of the House of Representatives to abolish excessive benefits for MPs and Senators. He stated that today reflects the cooperation of both opposition and government MPs in responding to the public's demands. This is seen as a trend toward eliminating school lunches for MPs, which would save the nation approximately 72 million baht per year. He added that starting with MPs, he would also extend this initiative to Senators, urging them to cooperate in building public trust.
The abolition of the eight parliamentary assistants, each earning 15,000 baht per month plus one earning 24,000 baht, reflects excessive spending on benefits for MPs and Senators. Therefore, Dr. Warong urged both MPs and Senators to reduce their assistants to just three. If the number of assistants is reduced, MPs could save up to 540 million baht annually.
Dr. Warong emphasized that if one parliamentary session saves 2.06 billion baht, and if the Senate cooperates, the national budget could be reduced by as much as 3 billion baht a year. He stressed the importance of responding to the needs of the people, especially during times of high prices for food and fuel, and advocated for national thriftiness. He mentioned having only appointed three parliamentary assistants and tearing up five documents to demonstrate the efficiency possible with fewer assistants. He urged MPs and the Senate to respond to the needs of the people and regain their trust, promoting a new kind of politics.
Dr. Warong also mentioned the establishment of a fund to support former members of parliament, which involves monthly contributions of 3,500 baht from both MPs and Senators, offering numerous benefits. He expressed concern about the pension aspect, which would be subsidized by taxpayer money, although it is referred to as a "living fund," a payment structure similar to a pension, increasing based on years of service.