Bangkok:The Bhumjaithai Party has withdrawn its original draft amendment to parliamentary regulations, aiming to decrease conflict within committee operations. Mr. Nikorn Chamnong, a Member of Parliament from the Bhumjaithai Party, announced this decision during a press conference, emphasizing the need to address misunderstandings regarding the powers of parliamentary committees.
According to Thai News Agency, discussions between Mr. Koravee Prisnanantakul, Chairman of the House of Representatives Coordination Committee, and the Opposition Coalition Coordination Committee highlighted the necessity of revising the rules of procedure to prevent committees from exceeding their authority. A previous draft amendment addressed issues like the selection of ad hoc committee chairpersons, which often led to competition due to unclear political proportions.
The initial proposal was perceived as an attempt to allow government control over committee chairmanships, which led to further negotiations between government and opposition members. It was agreed to revert to prior practices that focus on collaboration and consensus-making within committees. A letter was submitted to the Speaker of the House to withdraw the initial draft and revise aspects that could cause conflict, effectively reducing the amendment's principles from 15 to 9.
Key changes in the new amendments include reducing the time for general questions from 30 to 20 minutes, allowing more time for the House of Representatives to consider draft laws and public grievances. Urgent questions will maintain a 30-minute limit. The revised regulations also propose that only specific issues be considered in meetings, while significant national matters are addressed by the full House.
Additional proposals, such as adjusting the method for calculating amendment submission periods and allowing the appointment of additional assistant secretaries to committees, aim to enhance legislative efficiency. The amendments also incorporate opposition suggestions, like maintaining the validity of draft laws initiated by MPs even if they leave office, and allowing prime minister nominees to present their vision.
These regulatory revisions intend to address issues identified since 2019, integrating input from all political factions to ensure clarity, practicality, and effectiveness in legislative processes. The primary focus remains on cooperation and the benefits to the public, rather than political divisions.