Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra says the first reading of the draft entertainment complex bill, which was scheduled to be debated in parliament tomorrow, has been postponed, citing more urgent issues that need to be addressed.
She emphasised that the bill has been delayed, not withdrawn, and will be resubmitted in parliament’s next term.
“After discussing the issue with leaders of government coalition parties, we agreed that there were more urgent matters pending,” she said, adding that the draft bill will certainly be tabled during parliament’s next session.
She was speaking after chairing the weekly cabinet meeting at Government House.
Her ruling Pheu Thai Party has been pushing for the bill to reach parliament, despite growing opposition from civil networks.
Senior Pheu Thai members have argued that the bill would help boost tourism, attract an influx of income to Thailand and curb illegal online gambling.
The draft bill, which includes provisions for casinos, is often referred to as the “casino bill” and opponents believe that legalising casinos will lead to more crime and immoral behaviour.
Hundreds of protesters have been gathered near Government House for some time, campaigning by wearing white to express their opposition to the bill.
A group of senators announced today that they will enter the chamber with their hands crossed in front of them to symbolise their disapproval.
