Any delay in getting the new government in place could damage the country, as the international community is watching closely, Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) said on Wednesday.
The sooner the forming of the government is completed the better, Sanan said, no matter who leads it.
Sanan was speaking after chairing a meeting between TCC members and Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of Move Forward party and a prospective prime minister.
Sanan described the meeting as constructive.
He did, however, express concern over the new government’s introduction of zero-based budgeting, saying that Thailand used to apply the system but, if it is incorrectly implemented, it may result in budget allocations not being made in time.
In that case, it would certainly affect the economy and economic stimulus packages.
Pita said that the process of forming the government and starting work depends on the Election Commission, which has officially to confirm the MPs of each party.
He said that his government is more than ready to start work, as there are many issues to be solved for the sake of the people, such as the possible increase of the diesel price by Bt5, scheduled for July 21st because the present government shelved the issue, waiting for the new government to decide whether to extend the excise tax cut.
The public’s suffering cannot continue, Pita said. If the new government cannot officially start work on July 20th, the diesel price will rise to Bt37.
Pita said he is considering the matter so that, when his government officially takes the office, he can start workon the issue.
Pita said that, during the meeting, he briefed the TCC on developments in the forming his government and related matters.
There will be further meetings with the TCC, Pita said.
